1983/08 - Enhanced Short-range air defence system

1983

The British Aerospace Rapier, a short-range air defence system with a Mach 2 missile, was acquired in 1983 to enhance RSAF's air defence capabilities.

Backing up the I-HAWK was the British Aerospace Rapier, a short-range, surface-to-air system that could react quickly and was highly mobile. The Rapier was equipped with a Mach 2 missile that could be guided optically or via a radar tracker, and could take out low-level intruders within a range of 7.2km. With the acquisition of the Rapier, 165 SADA (now 165 Squadron) was formed and the Rapier achieved full operational capability in March 1986.

Missile launcher and radar system camouflaged in a grassy field during a military exercise.

The British Aerospace Rapier SAM system was equipped with a Mach 2 missile that could either be guided optically or via a radar tracker.

Group photo of uniformed soldiers posing outdoors in front of military vehicles during training

165 SADA was formed with MAJ Yam Ah Mee as its first Commanding Officer to operate the Rapier.

Soldiers aiming and inspecting a missile launcher system during a field training exercise.

The first Rapier live firing was conducted in Australia in 1984.

Soldiers in uniform seated beside a radar and missile system at a military outpost.

The pioneer Rapier operators in Australia, for the live firing exercise in June 1984.