NAVDEX: MBDA unveils Mistral missile launcher module SPIMM

French defense contractor MDBA has unveiled a new shipborne module for the launching of Mistral missiles called SPIMM (Self-Protection Integrated Mistral Module).

The air-defense module is based on the SIMBAD-RC system and designed to equip ships of all types, particularly those without a combat system (such as supply ships).

The module consists of a SIMBAD-RC automated naval turret equipped with two ready-to-fire Mistral missiles and a 360° infrared panoramic system to detect and track air and surface threats.

SPIMM was unveiled by MBDA after the company recently demonstrated the Mistral missile’s performance against fast boats such as fast inshore attack craft.

The system is controlled by two operators located in a shelter inside the module, which is also used to store four additional missiles. MBDA says the ISO standard module, 10 feet long and weighing some 7 tons, can be positioned on the deck of a ship using a crane, and requires just a standard electrical connection.

“The SPIMM enables the urgent and rapid adaptation of supply vessels or landing platform docks to cope with new threats, or for using them in contested areas,” says naval defense systems product executive Christophe Leduc. “This system illustrates MBDA’s ability to understand its customers’ needs and to quickly come up with effective and functional solutions.”