The Philippine Air Force is now in the process of negotiating the acquisition of laser-guided air-launched rockets, with Israel's Elbit Systems selected by the PAF with its Guided Advanced Tactical Rocket (GATR). The ABC for the project is Php156,785,590.00 (around US$2.95 million). MaxDefense and its contributors believe that the PAF may only be after kits instead of all-up rounds, as the GATR can be used to upgrade standard NATO 2.75" unguided rockets, and launched from standard 2.75" rocket launchers.
The GATR can be used against moving and stationary targets up to 8 kilometers away (depending on base rocket used, with the range based on Orbital ATK's own 2.75" rockets), and supports lock-on before or after launch as well as autonomous or remote laser designation.
The acquisition of the GATR would allow the PAF to use an affordable precision munitions onboard its current attack platforms with EO/IR turrets like the AW109E armed light helicopter, and the upcoming OV-10G+ Combat Dragon and A-29B Super Tucano attack aircraft. This would be added to a growing number of air-to-ground guided munitions being employed by the PAF.
This acquisition appears to be another solution that was born our of the PAF's experience in the Marawi conflict, which also brought the decision to acquire a purpose-built attack helicopter.
(MaxDefense)