Vympel R-73 (missile)

This article may be deleted soon.
	To oppose or discuss a nomination, please go to CZ:Proposed for deletion and follow the instructions. For the monthly nomination lists, see Category:Articles for deletion. A Russian short-range air-to-air missile, the Vympel R-73 (NATO AA-11 ARCHER), The missile has cooled infrared homing and can intercept targets at altitudes between 0.02 and 20km, target g-load to 12g, and with target speeds to 2,500km/hour. It is comparable to the AIM-9 Sidewinder|AIM-9X Sidewider and Israeli Python 4. Innovations included extensive maneuvering improvements both aerodynamic: thrust vectoring for post launch agility, canard vanes for high turn performance; and guidance}: a seeker capable of 45 degree off boresight acquisition, and a helmet mounted sight. Continued development changed the proximity fuze mechanism from radio to laser, and widening of the off-boresight engagement range. Aircraft platforms Known: MiG-29 (fighter)/NATO FULCRUM Su-27 (fighter)/NATO FLANKER References