UK commits to Aster missile upgrade
In future, the UK's Daring-class type 45 destroyers will carry a mix of Aster 30 Block 1 and CAMM missiles. (Photo: UK MoD/Crown Copyright)
The UK first announced plans to upgrade its Aster missiles in its 2021 Integrated Review.
The UK, through OCCAR, has signed an amendment to join the multi-national partnership between France and Italy to produce the Aster 30 Block 1 missile.
The contract will oversee conversion of the UK’s missiles to Aster 30 Block 1 naval standard as part of a mid-life update.
The Block 1 features a Ku-band seeker allowing for ‘neutralisation’ of 600km-range ballistic threats, according to documents from missile-maker MBDA.
Related Articles
RN plans Type 45 ballistic missile defence, eyes future counter-hypersonic capability
Under the new contract amendment, munitions assembly will take place at Defence Munitions Gosport (DMG).
Through the Sea Viper Evolution (SVE) project, the UK plans to field a ballistic missile defence (BMD) capability by the late 2020s.
The Aster 30 Block 1 upgrade is part of this work alongside plans for software updates to the Sampson multi-function radar (MFR) and Sea Viper C2 missile system.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Is South Korea finally being taken seriously for Western submarine programmes?]()
Is South Korea finally being taken seriously for Western submarine programmes?
South Korean shipbuilders are beginning to make their mark beyond Asia, competing for major North American and European submarine programmes and becoming serious contenders on a global scale.
-
![AUKUS Pillar 2 could narrow focus to “four key areas” says UK official]()
AUKUS Pillar 2 could narrow focus to “four key areas” says UK official
Few concrete ideas have emerged so far on which “advanced capabilities” will be brought forward under Pillar 2 of the AUKUS partnership, but the Pentagon’s review of the programme could bring more clarity.
-
![How the use of artificial intelligence will affect the US Coast Guard’s acquisitions]()
How the use of artificial intelligence will affect the US Coast Guard’s acquisitions
The USCG is pursuing AI tools to improve the way the service conducts its procurement and fielding processes.
