MBDA has successfully completed the validation firing of its Teseo MK2/E anti-ship missile system, intended for the Italian Navy.
The recent trial, which featured a 20-minute piloted cruise flight, was conducted to confirm both the range and overall design of the Teseo MK2/E system.
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Designed for high subsonic cruise speeds and equipped with high-G terminal manoeuvrability, the Teseo MK2/E has a stated effective range of over 350km at sea-skimming altitude.
As the latest iteration of the OTOMAT missile family, the system forms part of a multi-year programme launched in 2021 with Italy’s National Directorate of Naval Armaments, aimed at strengthening the navy’s anti-ship warfare capabilities.
Production contract of the system was awarded to MBDA in September last year.
This successful validation makes way for the development phase to conclude and allows the programme to move forward into production, following an earlier test in 2024 that verified the missile’s component design and aerodynamics.
Delivery of the first system to the Italian Navy is planned for 2028.
MBDA Italia managing director and sales and business development executive vice president Renzo Tosini said: “The success of this firing once again demonstrates that working in total synergy with the customer is fundamental to achieving even more ambitious results.”
Developed to meet updated operational requirements, the Teseo MK2/E incorporates several technological upgrades compared to previous versions.
Notable features include an Active Electronically Scanned Antenna (AESA) Radio Frequency seeker for enhanced target acquisition, shorter reaction times, and the ability to conduct advanced mission planning with real-time in-flight control through a satellite data link.
MBDA stated that these features will allow the missile to engage both maritime and land targets at increased distances, providing operational crews with an expanded engagement envelope and greater stand-off safety.
Navigation is delivered through a fully autonomous combination of inertial navigation (INS), GPS, and radio-altimeter systems, enabling adaptive sea-skimming and overland flight.
The missile is outfitted with a scalable, semi-piercing/high explosive warhead designed for varied target profiles.
The Teseo MK2/E is planned to equip several classes of Italian naval vessels, including the new PPA (Multi-Purpose Combat Ship), future destroyers (DDX), FREMM-class frigates, and Horizon-class destroyers. It is also expected to be incorporated into next-generation FREMM EVO frigates, with provisions for adaptation to international requirements.
