Martel (missile)
| Company type | Missile |
|---|---|
| Industry | Military |
| Predecessor | AGM-78 Standard ARM (in terms of sensor technology) |
| Products | Anti-radiation missile, Anti-ship missile |
The Martel missile, an Anglo-French creation, derives its name from the abbreviation of Missile, Anti-Radiation, Television, highlighting its dual guidance mechanisms. It exists in two primary forms: the AS.37, a passive radar anti-radiation missile, and the AJ 168, an anti-ship missile guided by television guidance.
Aircraft equipped to deploy the Martel included the Blackburn Buccaneer, capable of carrying up to three television-guided or four anti-radiation variants; the SEPECAT Jaguar, which could carry two; the Mirage III and Mirage F1, both able to carry one or two; and the Hawker Siddeley Nimrod, which carried at least one missile. Thanks to its extended range and powerful warhead, the Martel was particularly suited for maritime strike missions. During its era, compact active radar homing missiles like the AGM-84 Harpoon were unavailable, making video or ARM seeker systems the preferred choice. With subsonic velocity, a large warhead, and considerable reach, it was more comparable to anti-ship weapons such as the Exocet or AS.34 Kormoran than to conventional anti-radar missiles. Weighing approximately three times more than the AGM-45 Shrike, it delivered superior range and destructive capability despite being slower.
The Martel's anti-radiation variant featured adaptability to various radar frequency bands—an improvement over earlier models like the AGM-78 Standard ARM, which had a single narrow-band sensor. However, this sensor configuration had to be selected before flight, necessitating accurate intelligence on target radar emissions.
While both versions were operated by the United Kingdom, France exclusively employed the anti-radiation model. The missile's airframe formed the foundation for the Sea Eagle missile, which incorporated a turbojet engine to enhance range. France further advanced this technology by developing the ARMAT anti-radiation missile during the 1980s based on this platform. Subsequently, for anti-radiation roles, the RAF transitioned to using the smaller and more modern ALARM missile.
Operational history
France utilized the Martel missile during operations against Libya as part of Operation Epervier, providing support in Chad. On 7 January 1987, four French Jaguars were armed with Martel missiles; however, due to incorrect radar frequency programming, three failed to launch while one successfully neutralized an SA-6 radar system.
Later, on 7 March, following a Libyan air attack, ten Jaguars equipped with Martels from EC 4/11—or possibly EC 3/3 "Ardennes," known for specializing in Martel operations—targeted radar installations at Ouadi Doum airfield.