Article Posted on : - Sep 07, 2017

Sea Ceptor test firing from the HMS Argyll. An MBDA photo

LONDON (BNS): The British Royal Navy's upgraded Type-23 frigate HMS Argyll has successfully conducted the first test firing of the Sea Ceptor air defence missile system, the weapon's designer and manufacturer MBDA has announced.

The Sea Ceptor system, which utilises MBDA's next-generation Common Anti-air Modular Missile (CAMM), is being fitted to replace the Sea Wolf weapon system on the Type 23 frigates as part of their life-extension programme.

Sea Ceptor will provide improved protection for the Royal Navy against anti-ship cruise missiles, aircraft and other highly sophisticated threats, MBDA said in a statement on September 4.

HMS Argyll is the first Type 23 to undergo the life-extension programme, and will conduct further firing trials of the Sea Ceptor system before returning to frontline service, it said.

Compared to Sea Wolf, the CAMM is faster, has longer range, has a two-way data link, and has a much more advanced seeker, all of which enable the missile to intercept more challenging targets.

Designed and manufactured by MBDA in the UK, Sea Ceptor will also protect the Royal Navy's future Type 26 frigates, and as Land Ceptor, will replace Rapier surface-to-air missiles in British Army service.