Taurus KEPD 350: An advanced cruise missile that defines the face of modern warfare

Taurus KEPD 350

Modern military technologies require high accuracy, stealth, and the ability to hit well-protected targets at long distances. One of the most striking examples of such weapons is the Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missile, developed by the German company Taurus Systems GmbH with the participation of the Swedish Saab Bofors Dynamics. These weapons have become an important element of the air forces of several countries, including Germany, South Korea and Sweden.

Technical Specifications

The Taurus KEPD 350 is a long—range guided air-to-surface missile with a range of over 500 kilometers. Weighing about 1,400 kg (3,100 lb) and measuring between 5 and 5.1 meters (16-16.7 ft) long, with a wingspan of about 2.1 meters (6.7 ft), it combines compactness with high combat effectiveness. The flight speed ranges from Mach 0.6 to 0.95, which allows it to remain at a low level using terrain-following navigation technology** to reduce the likelihood of enemy radar detection.

One of the key features of the KEPD 350 is its dual warhead, consisting of a penetrating charge and a subsequent powerful explosive mechanism. This design makes it possible to successfully hit both concrete shelters and deeply fortified underground facilities. The weight of the warhead is about 481 kg, which makes it one of the most powerful ammunition in its class.

Guidance system and accuracy

The missile is equipped with a modern combined guidance system that includes GPS, inertial navigation and optical homing in the final phase of the attack. Due to this, the Taurus KEPD 350 demonstrates high accuracy of hitting — up to several meters, which makes it an ideal tool for destroying strategically important targets such as command posts, radar stations, fortified areas and military-industrial facilities.

The rocket also has a "zero-launch capability" function, meaning it can be launched from various types of aircraft, including fourth- and fifth-generation fighters such as the Eurofighter Typhoon or the F/A-18 Hornet. This flexibility significantly increases its value within aviation groups.

Strategic importance

Germany recently signed an agreement to modernize its Taurus KEPD 350 missiles to extend their service life and enhance their combat capabilities. In addition, Sweden is also actively working on the integration of this system into its Gripen E fighter jets, which demonstrates its importance in the international arena.

Due to its stealth, power, and range, the Taurus KEPD 350 plays a key role in strategic defense and air defense suppression operations. It allows strikes to be carried out without risk to pilots, being outside the range of modern air defense systems.