MBDA tests new Teseo MK2/E anti-ship system for Italian Navy

The Teseo MK2/E evolved missile system was test-fired for the first time as part of the multi-year development program for the Italian Navy, defense company MBDA unveiled.

As disclosed, the firing, in cooperation with the Italian Navy, validated the design of the new elements of the missile and confirmed the results of wind tunnel testing of the missile’s new aerodynamics. This test paves the way towards the qualification of the new airframe and the new propulsion system, expected next next year, according to MBDA.

Teseo MK2/E is a new generation missile that brings a substantial improvement in the anti-ship capabilities of the Teseo missile family, known abroad as OTOMAT. The system features a mix of new capabilities and performance, notably through a new AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Antenna) RF seeker, shorter reaction times and enhanced mission planning that includes in-flight missile control via a satellite data link, the company said.

Teseo Mk2/E has been defined and developed in close collaboration with the Italian Navy to equip the new PPA, multi-purpose combat ship, and new generation destroyers (DDX).

Alongside the previous Mk2/A version, it will also on board the FREMM and Horizon class naval units.

The Teseo MK2/E missile system will also be integrated into future FREMM frigates.

“This first test of the Teseo MK2/E demonstrates the validity of the project, confirms our development roadmap, and presents a cutting-edge naval defence product capable of countering the most sophisticated threats. It also underlines once again how working in synergy with the customer brings results that perfectly meet their requirements,” Giovanni Soccodato, Executive Group Director Sales and Business Development and Managing Director of MBDA Italia, stated.

“The decision by our Navy to equip the Teseo MK2/E with the new AESA seeker has made it possible to develop Italian skills in the deep strike domain and will allow our country to participate in the FC/ASW programme in collaboration with France and UK, contributing high added-value support and significant technological content.” 

To remind, Orizzonte Sistemi Navali (OSN), a joint venture owned by Fincantieri and Leonardo, signed a contract for the construction of two new FREMM frigates for the Italian Navy. The two new FREMM frigates will be of the EVOLUTION version, known also as FREMM EVO.

According to Fincantieri, the vessels will be at the cutting edge of naval military craft, in terms of technology and performance. The frigates will have the latest anti-drone capabilities and the capacity for operational management of unmanned systems across three dimensions (above the surface, on the sea and below the surface).