The UK Royal Navy’s Type 23 Duke-class frigate HMS Westminster is set to be integrated with a new, short-range shield, anti-air missile, Sea Ceptor.

HMS Westminster is currently nearing completion of a major overhaul programme at the Portsmouth Naval Base.

The upgrade programme will include the fitting of Sea Ceptor, a new medium-range radar and an improved computer system, including a number of other improvements.

"The introduction of Ceptor is a real opportunity for both us and 16 Regiment to learn from each other."

The frigate will re-enter service next year and will serve as the Royal Navy’s foremost submarine hunter.

Westminster senior naval officer lieutenant commander Chris L’Amie said: “We are excited about being able to work together over the next few years.

“The introduction of Ceptor is a real opportunity for both us and 16 Regiment to learn from each other. We will continue to foster a strong working relationship with our closest military neighbours.”

Developed by MBDA, Sea Ceptor and its supporting radar system will gradually replace the Seawolf missiles that are currently fitted across the Type 23 frigate flotilla.

The vertically-launched supersonic missile is slightly heavier than its predecessor and has a range of more than 25km.

Additionally, the ground-based version of Sea Ceptor would soon replace the Rapier missile that is used by the gunners of 16 Regiment Royal Artillery.

Based at Thorney Island along the coast from Portsmouth, the 16 Regiment use Rapier missile to provide their infantry and armoured comrades with cover on the battlefield.

Image: Sea Ceptor. Photo: courtesy of MBDA.