Air Weapons: April 9, 2003

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Israeli Military Industries Tald (Tactical air launched decoy) aerial decoy, for use against enemy air defenses, was so successful in Iraq that the U.S. Navy has rushed out a $12.5 million for the improved (Itald) version of the decoy. The original Tald was a 7.3 foot long, 400 pound glider that deployed wings after it was launched and could go for about 100 kilometers, looking like an approaching warplanes to enemy radars. You could equip Talds to drop chaff, to further confuse radar, or broadcast deceptive signals. Enemy missiles and guns would fire at the Tald, especially during night attacks, taking pressure off the real bombers. Each Tald cost about $145,000. The Itald has a small jet engine and can fly for about 300 kilometers along a preprogrammed course, aided by GPS, making it appear even more realistic to enemy radars. Itald costs about $160,000 each. The Tald was developed and built by an American company until an Israeli firm took over development and manufacture.