HMAS Melbourne fires Evolved Sea Sparrows
The HMAS Melbourne Adelaide-class frigate of the Royal Australian Navy fired two Evolved Sea Sparrow missiles off the New South Wales coast on 24 June.
The missiles were fired against two unmanned aerial targets that were launched from Beecroft Range, Jervis Bay, as part of the vessel's operational training programme. HMAS Melbourne used its MK-41 Vertical Launch System to deploy the missiles and successfully engage the target.
Cmdr Bill Waters, commanding officer, HMAS Melbourne, said: 'We do extensive simulation, but by conducting a live missile firing we validate this training and prove the accuracy and precision of our combat systems.'
The Evolved Sea Sparrow is a semi-active, medium-range homing missile that can conduct mid-course flight corrections through radar and data uplinks. It can engage surface-to-surface and surface-to-air targets and is used by Australian frigates.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![NATO tests use of “undetectable, jam-proof” laser communication in maritime scenarios]()
NATO tests use of “undetectable, jam-proof” laser communication in maritime scenarios
As part of its effort to better prepare its capabilities for operations in contested and congested scenarios, NATO evaluated a Lithuanian ship-to-ship terminal designed to not be susceptible to enemy interference.
-
![US Navy advances with the Harpoon Service Life Extension Programme]()
US Navy advances with the Harpoon Service Life Extension Programme
The US Navy plans to improve Harpoon’s anti-ship and land attack capabilities by equipping the missiles with sensors and technologies required for succeeding in future battlespace.
-
![Mitsubishi eyes future with Australia’s Mogami selection]()
Mitsubishi eyes future with Australia’s Mogami selection
With Australia’s selection of the Mogami-class for Project Sea 3000, Mitsubishi is investigating local production in the next decade as potential export opportunities emerge.
-
![Thales’ new Sonar 76Nano could equip UK Royal Navy on anti-submarine warfare missions]()
Thales’ new Sonar 76Nano could equip UK Royal Navy on anti-submarine warfare missions
The new sonar is designed to equip uncrewed underwater vessels, with the potential to be used by the Royal Navy for its Atlantic Bastion and Atlantic Net missions.
-
![Hanwha wins Australian government approval to increase its stake in Austal]()
Hanwha wins Australian government approval to increase its stake in Austal
The contract would mean the two shipbuilders can collaborate strategically and enhance shipbuilding capabilities in Western Australia.
