UK still weighing up future surface to surface missile options
A concept image of the MBDA Perseus missile. (Photo: MBDA)
The UK RN is debating whether to procure an interim replacement for its Harpoon missiles or leave the capability unfilled until a new weapon can be brought into service.
The UK RN is still weighing up options for a future surface-to-surface missile requirement to replace Harpoon, with the First Sea Lord Adm Sir Tony Radakin (soon to become Chief of the Defence Staff) telling MPs on 2 November that there was a debate around whether to procure an interim solution or leave a gap until a more advanced weapon can be brought into service.
Current plans call for the UK to retire Harpoon in 2023. However, the RN paused plans to acquire an interim replacement for the weapon that would have bridged the gap until the entry into
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders]()
Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders
Turkish shipbuilders have sold ships from Asia to Europe, but autonomy and swarm technology could give them a fairer fight against Western European rivals.
-
![Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq]()
Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq
The Canadian Department of National Defence is evaluating communications and reconnaissance changes for CCGS Imnaryuaq’s expanded maritime security role, while retaining its 2032 acceptance target.
-
![All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids]()
All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids
Responses are due by 29 October as the Royal Navy tests the market, with BAE Systems’ Herne and MSubs’ Excalibur setting up a contest where payloads may decide the winner.
-
![US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests]()
US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests
Boeing has outlined its upcoming precision-landing and carrier-airspace trials as MQ-25 manufacturing shifts towards Illinois, with initial Lot 1 deliveries expected in 2029.
-
![From Poland to the Pacific: can Miecznik become a blueprint for other navies?]()
From Poland to the Pacific: can Miecznik become a blueprint for other navies?
Babcock is taking its Polish industrial partnership approach to Denmark and New Zealand as navies seek sovereign shipbuilding skills alongside ships.
