The Brimstone, originally designed to attack Hellfire missiles, is an air-to ground missile with high performance. It can be operated from both aircraft and helicopters. It can also be used from drones. This is known as "fire & forget." It has been deployed in several countries, including Saudi Arabia. In fact, more than 2000 Brimstone models have been produced.
The Brimstone missile first entered service in 2005. It was initially intended to be used in conjunction with aircraft like the Tornado GR.4, however, due to the rules of engagement during combat in Afghanistan, this was impossible. Brimstone was to be used with the RAF's Harrier GR.7 Strike Jets. However, this was not possible due to it being removed from British fleet. This forced the RAF into finding a solution that would allow GR.4 to carry Brimstone while maintaining its operational capability.
The Brimstone rocket was built to carry an asymmetric shaped-charge warhead. The warhead can penetrate all known reactive armour, as well as conventional armour. The warhead is intended to be fired from aircraft and helicopters but can also be used in a naval-based version, the Sea Spear. The missile will also be used to attack UAVs such the MQ-9 Reaper (attack helicopter) and AH64 Apache attack helicopters (UAVs).
Brimstone missile has semi-active radar and millimetrewave (mmW), radar guidance that can be used to target fast moving targets. This allows the missile and launcher to be directed towards the target. The target is then destroyed.
The dual guidance systems of the missile can be used to paint enemy targets even when there is no clear path. After launch, the missile can lock onto its target. The missile can be programmed to search a specific area. The missile's lock-on feature after launch is important because it can withstand enemy countermeasures.
The Brimstone has the ability to carry a tandem shaped-charge HEAT bomber. The warhead is capable of piercing 800 mm of steel armor. You can use the warhead to engage material targets and troop concentrations. The missile can also destroy small ships, boats, and aircraft. It is used in wars such as Libya and Yemen. Recent deployments by Ukrainian forces have seen it deployed against Russian forces.
The Brimstone is among the few missiles that can use dual guidance systems. The Dual Mode Brimstone (DMB), has been supplied by MBDA to Britain. The DMB was created under an Urgent Operational Requirement. Dual Mode Brimstone retains a millimetre wavelength seeker, but it also has semi-active laser guidance. A second party can steer the missile with its dual guidance system.
The Brimstone series of missiles is a key component of the RAF's air-to-ground combat strategy. Dual Mode Brimstone can be found on Eurofighter aircraft, as well as MBDA’s Meteor Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air missile (MBVR). The missile will be used on the Apache AH Mk.1 gunship fleet by UK Army Air Corps aircraft.