OVERVIEW: The SURA R80 is an Unguided, medium-caliber, air-to-ground rocket developed for precision strikes by lightweight aircraft and helicopters. It features fin-stabilization and was designed as a lighter alternative to the SNORA system.

DETAILS: SURA stands for Swiss Underwing Rocket Armament, developed by Oerlikon-Contraves as a successor to the heavier SNORA rocket. The R80 model designates an 80mm caliber rocket optimized for compatibility with lighter aircraft while maintaining modularity and precision. It used fin-stabilization and could carry a variety of warheads, including HE and HEAT, for roles such as anti-personnel, anti-vehicle, or marking. The SURA R80 was launched from 6-tube or 12-tube pods designed for ease of integration on Swiss and export aircraft.

The R80 improved on weight and aerodynamic profile compared to SNORA, allowing carriage by lighter aircraft such as trainers or light attack helicopters. Its modular pods and reduced recoil allowed safe launch from platforms with lower structural capacity.

It was intended to be launched from underwing pods on light aircraft, using basic gunsight or HUD aiming systems. The rocket was fired manually or through pilot-controlled release, in direct or shallow dive attacks against area or soft point targets.

NOTE:
IOC: 1980s
Operators: Switzerland, South Africa
Platforms: Pilatus PC-7, Pilatus PC-9, Alouette III, F+W C-3605
Conflict used in: No confirmed combat use

SOURCE:
Jane’s Air-Launched Weapons ; Oerlikon-Contraves Technical Sheets ; Swiss Federal Department of Defence ; Armscor South Africa Publications ; Swiss Air Force Historical Reports