MBDA conducts successful test of Teseo missile
MBDA has announced the successful test launch of its new Teseo MK2/E anti-ship missile system, conducted in partnership with the Italian Navy as part of a multi-year development programme.
This first firing of the evolved missile took place on 14 October, marking a milestone in enhancing the anti-ship capabilities of the Teseo missile family, also known internationally as OTOMAT, according to a press release.
The test aimed to validate critical new components in the Teseo MK2/E, particularly its updated airframe and propulsion systems. Preliminary wind tunnel tests had indicated promising results, which were confirmed during the live firing. These developments pave the way for final qualification of the missile’s design, with full validation expected to be completed next year.
The Teseo MK2/E introduces several advancements over previous models. Equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Antenna (AESA) RF seeker, the system is capable of responding faster to threats and supports enhanced mission planning with the integration of a satellite data link. This combination, say the builders, enables the missile to engage both sea and land targets at significantly greater distances, adding a level of flexibility not seen in earlier systems. With this extended range, the missile aims to increase crew safety by enabling operations from a safer distance while offering the potential for deep-strike capabilities against fortified or mobile land targets.
The Teseo MK2/E was developed in close collaboration with the Italian Navy and will be integrated into several of its platforms, including the new PPA multi-purpose combat ships and upcoming DDX destroyers. In addition, MBDA plans to equip the missile system on the FREMM EVO frigates and offer it to international customers.
The collaboration with the Italian Navy on the AESA seeker also opens avenues for Italy’s involvement in the FC/ASW (Future Cruise/Anti-Ship Weapon) programme alongside the UK and France.
In a statement included in the press release, Giovanni Soccodato, Executive Group Director of Sales and Business Development and Managing Director of MBDA Italia, commented on the successful test: “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.”
Soccodato further highlighted the strategic benefits of the missile’s advanced technology, noting its capacity to “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.”
