Firing trials of Sea Ceptor complete
The Royal Navy has successfully completed First of Class firing trials of the Sea Ceptor air defence system on board HMS Argyll, MBDA announced on 20 December.
These final qualification firings saw Sea Ceptor tested against complex scenarios, including multiple simultaneous threats.
Following the completion of Sea Ceptor’s development testing on HMS Argyll, the weapon system is now being rolled out to the Royal Navy’s other Type 23 frigates, where it will replace the Sea Wolf weapon system. The first of a series of installation test firings has been successfully completed on HMS Westminster. Each Sea Ceptor platform will similarly complete an installation test firing in due course as they prepare to re-join frontline service after their refits.
The Sea Ceptor system, which uses MBDA’s Common Anti-air Modular Missile (CAMM), features a powerful rocket motor that provides double the range of Sea Wolf and an active radar-seeker that allows the missile to engage targets without the need for complex and costly target illuminators.
Nick Neale, manager for Sea Ceptor programme at MBDA, said: ‘The performance and capabilities of Sea Ceptor have been fully demonstrated in these trials by the Royal Navy. Recognising the complexity of the new system, the consistent level of success achieved is significant and testament to the quality of MBDA’s verification and validation process.’
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs]()
Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs
The company has invested $80 million to enhance its facilities and establish a new maritime division.
-
![Zumwalt-class hypersonic missile plan progresses with demonstration set for 2027]()
Zumwalt-class hypersonic missile plan progresses with demonstration set for 2027
The US Navy’s Zumwalt-class destroyer is a stealth ship originally designed to consist of a fleet of 32 but has been cut back to three. Conceived for a land-attack role, it is now being fitted with a hypersonic missile capability.
-
![How powerful is the US fleet of nuclear submarines compared to Russian capabilities?]()
How powerful is the US fleet of nuclear submarines compared to Russian capabilities?
Although both countries still operate Cold War-era platforms, they possess capable nuclear-powered and armed submarines and are investing in the development of new, advanced capabilities.
-
![Royal Australian Navy’s plan for fleet refresh continues in the face of headwinds]()
Royal Australian Navy’s plan for fleet refresh continues in the face of headwinds
Australia has selected the Mogami-class frigate from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to replace Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Anzac-class frigates. The decision has been made as the RAN pushes to introduce delayed offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), awaits criticised Hunter-class ships and lives in the shadow of threats to the Collins-class submarine replacement efforts.
