(UAS/ATIS)MPM-3 "Ibis" Short-range missile

||TYPE: Missile
||HARDPOINT CLASS: (M)
||MAX HARDPOINT COUNT: 4
||MAX RANGE: [Data locked]
||MAX SPEED: [Data locked]
||MAX PAYLOAD: [Data locked]
||MAX INERTIA: [Data Locked]


MPM-3 is the smallest and lowest mass variant of the MPM system, allowing it to be carried in much larger numbers. Despite the smaller payload capacity when compared to the larger systems, the MPM-3 is still relatively large within its primary role as a ground-launched or atmosphere-to-surface anti-vehicle/Anti-armour missile, compared to contemporary ATGMs of this class. The most commonly produced variant is the MPM-3A/G (Atmosphere, Ground); a variant with aerofoils and optimised directional thrusting for use in atmospheric conditions.

The MPM-3 is the most widely used general-purpose missile deployed on ATIS IPF Vehicles, being used on essentially all IPF Infantry Fighting Vehicles and Close Air Support craft, to some degree. Like all of the MPM systems, the design emphasises versatility; specifically agility over a shorter range, multi-spectrum optics for 'Fire and Forget' operation, independent target acquisition and a versatile Multiple Independent Vehicle (MIV) payload with up to 4 individually guidable submunitions.

The primary mode of attack when used in the ATGM (against ground vehicles) mode uses MIVs to target multiple hostile vehicles within a close radius to the target zone. The missile carries four MIVs each with a dual-stage Fusion Impulse Charge warhead capable of penetrating over 1500MM RHA equivalent up to around a 10 meter stand-off range, this allows the warhead to detonate with effect before interception by some close-range active protection systems.

Alternatively, the missile can operate the MIVs in tandem groups of two warheads; the combined MIVs have greater penetration and stand-off range for use against heavier vehicles. Additionally, all four MIVs can combine to form a powerful direct-attack FIC with air-burst fragmentation capability for use against infantry, emplacements and light vehicles, or a single heavily protected target, such as a fortified bunker.

The MPM-3 is typically deployed from a four-missile pod with built-in sensors for target acquisition and initial guidance; the pod itself being capable of mounting on essentially all IPF combat vehicles due to the modular design. Air-launched variants of the MPM-3 quad-launch pod lack the additional optics due to the reliance on the air/spacecraft targeting system and the stricter weight restrictions of the platform.

Unlike the larger MPM systems, the MPM-3 is produced and deployed in fully self-contained, sealed pods from which the missile is handled, mounted and fired. The pod design allows faster reloading and re-supply in the field in cases where large numbers of missiles need to be used. It can also protect the sensitive seeker head from weapons fire and wear and tear when deployed on ground vehicles.

(PICTURES):
1) MPM-3A/G Missile
2) MPM-3 Ground Vehicle Quad-Launch Module with MPM-3A/G Pod and missile
3) MPM-3 Air/Space Vehicle Quad-Launch Module with MPM-3A/G Pod and missile