The ESSM Block 2 missile requires less shipboard illumination and is compatible with multiple combat systems and launch platforms. Credit: RTX
  • The ESSM Block 2 features a range of improvements over the Block 1 variant, including a new warhead
  • The anti-air missile market represents a sizeable portion of the global missile market, according to analysis
  • The Block 2 missile is being developed by the 12-nation SeaSparrow consortium

US defence munition manufacturer Raytheon announced that it has delivered its 500th Evolved SeaSparrow Missile (ESSM) Block 2 to the US Navy, amid plans to nearly double production rates by the middle of next year.

Detailed in a 1 October release, Raytheon, which is an RTX business, said the company was investing in infrastructure and material to continue deliveries, setting a timeline for mid-2026 to complete its production ramp-up.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Go deeper with GlobalData

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

The ESSM Block 2 is a surface-to-air missile intended to counter air and sea-surface threats, and features a dual-mode active and semi-active radar seeker and increased manoeuvrability and performance compared to the older Block 1 variant.

Uniquely, the ESSM Block 2 leverages Standard Missile 6 technology to “reduce reliance on illuminator support and mitigate challenges in missile sequencing that are inherent in high-density stream raids,” according to the US Director Operational Test & Evaluation (DOT&E).

The semi-active guidance is retained from ESSM Block 1, with the Block 2 also featuring a new blast fragmentation warhead while also being developed to operate in “challenging electromagnetic environments”, defence shorthand for use in combat situations against peer or near-peer rivals.

In August 2021, the US Navy commenced Phase 1 initial OT&E (IOT&E) in accordance with a DOT&E approved test plan and observed by DOT&E. Data from both phases of IOT&E are required for determination of operational effectiveness, suitability, and cyber survivability of the ESSM Block 2.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

The US Navy expected to complete Phase 2 IOT&E in FY25.

US committing funding to ESSM Block 2

An unclassified budget justification dataset from the US Navy stated that increased of funding in Nato Sea Sparrow support from FY 2024 to FY 2025 was “primarily due [to] integration verification and flight testing in support of ESSM Block 2 IOT&E Phase 2 starting in FY 2025”.

According to GlobalData’s Global Missiles & Missile Defense Systems market report, the sector is anticipated to register a compound annual growth rate of 5.9%, growing from $55.7bn in 2025 to $98.5bn by 2035.

Including in this sector are anti-air missiles, along with their anti-ship missile threat such capabilities will be expected to counter. The anti-air missile segment will account for 24% of the total market.

Naval Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Naval Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Virtualitics has secured the Innovation and Business Expansion awards for its Integrated Readiness Optimization (IRO) suite. Discover how its explainable AI is transforming maintenance, sustainment and mission readiness, giving defence leaders faster, clearer, and more confident operational decisions.

Discover the Impact