Anglo-French Future Cruise/Anti-Ship Weapon takes long-awaited step forward
Graphic showing concepts for FC/ASW. (Image: MBDA)
On 17 February, representatives from the UK and France signed agreements with MBDA paving the way for the next step of the Future Cruise/ Anti-Ship Weapon (FC/ASW) project.
The signing of a government agreement and associated contracts by the French DGA and UK’s Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) launches ‘preparation’ work for the FC/ASW programme.
Preparation work will focus on the coordinated development of deep strike and anti-ship missiles.
The work will assess two missiles, a subsonic low observable concept and a supersonic, highly manoeuvrable concept, due to be fielded before the end of the decade.
Designed to meet French
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
HMS Agamemnon: details of the dive and what the Astute-class signifies for the UK Royal Navy
As HMS Agamemnon moves closer towards joining the UK’s in-service submarine fleet, how does the sixth Astute-class fit into the Royal Navy’s defence strategy?
-
French Navy frigates to align with Hellenic Navy after Aster missile enhancement
The FDI frigates will have an enhanced warfare capability that matches the configuration of ships ordered by Greece.
-
Khabarovsk submarine launch reflects Russia’s nuclear modernisation progress
The nuclear-powered vessel, which could carry the Poseidon autonomous torpedo – dubbed the “doomsday missile” – marks another step forward in Russia’s maritime defence push.
-
US Coast Guard seeks national and foreign suppliers for light and medium icebreakers
Contracts for new light and medium cutters are expected to be awarded in mid-2026.
-
Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening
The new underwater vehicle has been described as an “important deterrent” thanks to its ability to operate undetected for extended periods of time.
-
First Canadian Coast Guard Polar Icebreaker is “on track” for keel laying in late 2026
Canadian Coast Guard Ship Arpatuuq construction is in the block manufacturing phase. Once built, it will be the largest vessel in the Coast Guard’s inventory.