I pulled out my latest copy of Jane's to check up on the F.E.R.R.E.T.
Missile specs.  Seems their passive homing system can also be spoofed by
sharp acoustic bursts.  They often lose target lock and reacquire the decoy
squeaks instead.  There has been some work with laser designators that
shows precision homing capability, but so far this equipment is rarely
fielded.  A close in defensive approach of bitter apple application to
targets can make final acquisition a little more difficult and give the
target K9s time to redeploy and lessen strike impacts.  Bovine models lack
the maneuverability to escape as easily and are still at risk.  There are
references to a recon.  variant that can take samples and return them to
base.  The payloads are quite sizable.
 
The biggest defensive problem posed by these systems is the erector/launcher
is easily hidden and usually provides no warning from sensor emissions.
Often, the presence of expendables in corners is the sole sign of their
presence when the system is at stand by.  Deployment in hidden revetments
known as couches is common.  They are also often used in multiple weapon
attacks to overwhelm the defensive capability.  We have tested similar FLASH
and MAX series missiles (older BUSTER variants) on a German K9 unit and
found that the K9 could not overcome the missile countermeasures.  It's own
defensive Precision Anti-missile Weapon (PAW) strikes never downed one,
despite a spirited effort and repeated volleys.
 
The scary thing about these developmental weapons is that the capabilities
will grow some, but the tactics for use can still be honed to maximize
effectiveness.  The onboard computer is a marvel of miniaturization and
provides a processing capability that belies its size.  They can adapt to
defensive techniques without prior programming and exploit new offensive
profiles.  The larger K9 processor is barely a match.
 
The Boston Pact has prohibited deployment of these missiles in East & West
Coast exclusion zones out of fear of their awesome capabilities.  Partisans
have smuggled some into both areas, but public displays are limited.  This
is a rare weapon in that locals actually want to have them deployed in their
own backyards.
 
   ( )--(a)
   (@=@=) \     Till next time.......Rudy the ferlosopher
   O__)  \ \___
      \   \        (Great post, Richard!)
      /\ * )  \
[Posted in FML issue 1314]