On October 14, 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, MBDA revealed.
Aas 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.
The tests pave the way towards the qualification of the new airframe and the new propulsion system, expected next next year, according to MBDA.
The Teseo Mk2/E missile system will feature a mix of new capabilities and performance, notably through a new AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Antenna) RF seeker, shorter reaction times and mission planning that includes in-flight missile control via a satellite data link.
Together these features will enable the effective countering of both sea and land targets at long ranges than previous generation systems, the company highlighted.
“ 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.”
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 EVO frigates.