The current Aster family comprises two missiles originally
designed as anti-missile missiles, capable of defeating all air
threats. This family is characterized by a common kill vehicle
and a booster (15 or 30) depending on the operational
requirement. The ASTER PAAMS (Principal Anti-Air Missile System)
is a vertical launch missile system based on ASTER 15 and ASTER
30. This advanced air defence system is able to integrate the
following three missions: self-defense, local area defence of
nearby vessels, and fleet area defence. It is conceived from the
outset as an anti-missile weapon system and integrating the
anti-aircraft and anti-missile functions. It is ordered to equip
the Royal Navy Type 45 destroyers; the French Horizon frigates;
the Italian Orizzonte frigates. The range of the Aster 15 excess
30 km and the range of Aster 30 excess 100 km. © EADS 2013