The Taimur Air-Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM), developed by Pakistan’s state-owned Global Industrial & Defence Solutions (GIDS) is a low observable, subsonic anti-surface weapon system. First unveiled at the IDEAS 2022, Taimur is a direct competitor to MBDA Storm-Shadow/SCALP and Roketsan SOM (Stand-off Missile) in the export market.
The Taimur Air-Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM) is an anti-ship, export variant of Pakistan’s nuclear-capable RAAD-II ALCM (600 km) optimized for deployment via fixed-wing aircraft for air-to-surface operations. It serves as both an anti-ship and land-attack cruise missile. Designed for stand-off engagements, it allows the launch platform to effectively engage distant targets up to 290 km.
Taimur is Equipped with an imaging infrared (IIR) seeker for high-accuracy terminal guidance. It is also capable of terrain-hugging and sea-skimming capabilities, enabling it to fly at low altitudes while hugging the terrain or skimming over the sea surface. Operating at low altitudes, it maintains stealth and stability at subsonic speeds throughout its cruise.
Technical Specifications:
- Range: 290 Km
- Warhead Type: Blast: Fragmentation
- Navigation System: Ins / Gnss
- Length: 4.38 M
- Weight: 1100 Kg
- Wing Span: 3.2 M
The missile’s advanced INS/GNSS guidance system, coupled with its low observability, allows it to penetrate sophisticated air defense networks with high precision and reduced chances of interception. Based on a modular design, it is the third variation of the RAAD series of missiles, which is a testament to its upgradability, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in rapidly evolving warfare.
