DCNS A3SM anti-aircraft self-defense for submarines

[Triton]

"DCNS introduces a new weapon system for submarines: anti-aircraft self-defense"

Currently, submarines have no alternative but to flee when detected by helicopters and maritime patrol aircraft. But thanks to a new air defense system developed by DCNS in cooperation with MBDA, the game is about to change.

Indeed, to meet the needs of navies to protect their submarines from air threats, The DCNS-designed A3SM comes in two versions, both fully integrated with Subtics® combat systems:

http://youtu.be/jIGl42ELB_A

Mast version: Comprises a missile housing (that remains watertight throughout the submarine’s operating range and down to maximum diving depth) mounted on a hoistable mast and containing several short-range Mistral missiles that can be fired from periscope depth.

http://youtu.be/gJZf7scDnQ0

Underwater vehicle version: Comprises a torpedo-like capsule containing a medium-range (20 km) Mica missile that is tube-launchable at any depth. The capsule is similar to the type developed for submarine-launched Exocet anti-ship missiles.

Source:
http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=714

 

[Jemiba]

The mast version isn't very different from SLAM, proposed and tested around 1974. So, there
actually was an alternative for just fleeing and hiding, but it seems not to have been considered
worthwhile. Maybe because at least the mast mounted version gives away the subs position, when
it needs stealth more, than every thing else. And a shot launched from a torpedo tube probably
isn't that much better.
(for SLAM see http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,1722.0/highlight,blowpipe.html )

 

[Useful Dave]

The Mica variant is pretty much IDAS, then?