MBDA Missile Systems

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MBDA is the only European group capable of designing and producing missiles and missile systems to meet the whole range of current and future needs of the three armed forces.

The only integrated defence company to provide missiles and missile systems for each branch of the armed forces (air, sea, land).


A multi-national group with more than 13.000 employees working together across France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom. Offices also set up in USA.


A joint venture of the 3 European leaders in aerospace and defence: Airbus (37.5%), BAE Systems (37.5%) and Leonardo (25%).

MBDA - Excellence at your side

MBDA is a world leader in missile systems offering a comprehensive international product range incorporating today’s most advanced innovations.

www.mbda-systems.com

 

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MBDA and BAE Systems Hägglunds demonstrate AKERON and CV90 firepower​

AKERON MP mounted on a CV90 ©BAE Systems
MBDA’s AKERON MP missile has been fired from the BAE Systems Hägglunds CV90 infantry combat vehicle at a test range in Northern Sweden, in the presence of representatives of the Swedish Armed Forces.


AKERON is a unique family of fifth-generation tactical combat missiles incorporating the latest technologies in terms of high-resolution multi-band imagers, multi-effect warheads (anti-tank, anti-infrastructure, anti-personnel), data-links, and multi-mode guidance algorithms based on AI techniques. CV90 is a highly capable modern infantry fighting vehicle featuring an advanced integrated combat system linked to wider battlefield management systems.


The combination of AKERON MP/LYNKEUS and the CV90 combat system offers a unique capability for target engagement in complex environments (forested, urban etc.) through the combination of either immediate target locking of AKERON in lock-on before launch (LOBL) mode, or target acquisition in-flight in lock-on after launch (LOAL) mode, all this made possible by the information provided to the crew by the CV90 combat system. This ability of AKERON to engage tanks at ranges of 4km, with the option for collaborative combat through the CV90 combat system with a LYNKEUS integrated micro-UAV for scouting is unique.


The firing conditions for the trial were set to highlight the complementarity of the CV90 advanced combat system with the unique capability of AKERON MP / LYNKEUS, and with regards to winter combat conditions in the Nordic country; with a successful lock-on before launch (LOBL) in TV band.

MBDA and BAE Systems Hägglunds demonstrate AKERON and CV90 firepower | Press Release | MBDA

MBDA’s AKERON MP missile has been fired from the BAE Systems Hägglunds CV90 infantry combat vehicle at a test range in Northern Sweden.

www.mbda-systems.com

 

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Aster 30 air defence missile successfully fired from the FREMM DA Lorraine​

On Wednesday 22 March 2023 the French Navy’s Lorraine multi-mission frigate enhanced with air defence capabilities (FREMM DA) successfully fired the Aster 30 air defence missile.


This type of firing against targets representative of current threats trains crews to deal with the high intensity scenarios the Navy’s battleships are likely to encounter during operations. In this case, the task was to neutralise an air threat with a complex trajectory, in an escort scenario involving a valuable ship under threat of missile attack.


Aster missiles, which come in two versions (Aster 15 with approximately 30 km range, and Aster 30 with approximately 100 km range), are carried by multi-mission frigates, air-defence frigates and the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier. They will also be carried by the new defence and intervention frigates. The missiles have been specifically designed to destroy attacking aircraft and missiles.


This form of training against top of the spectrum threats helps consolidate the know-how required of a fighting Navy. Firing complex munitions forms part of the POLARIS spirit and reflects the Navy Chief of Staff’s (CEMM) commitment to making naval warfare the prime focus of all Navy activities.


The many tactical and technical lessons learned from this firing will help develop the French Navy’s combat capabilities.


Although the Aster 30 weapon system has already been validated for the FREMM DA (following the Aster 30 firing from the Alsace on 17 November 2021), this recent firing of complex munitions helps confirm the military capabilities of the Lorraine with a view to its entry into active service.


The reaction of the FREMM DA crew, who were unaware of the missile trajectory details, was extremely effective. This training highlights the realism demanded in French naval training since POLARIS.


Firing of this type is impossible without support and expertise from the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA): DGA Maîtrise de l’information (preparation for firing) and DGA Essais de missiles – Ile du Levant launch site (target implementation and safety of the firing range).


Firing of this type is impossible without support and expertise from the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA): DGA Maîtrise de l’information (preparation for firing) and DGA Essais de missiles – Ile du Levant launch site (target implementation and safety of the firing range).

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/la-fremm-da-lorraine-tire-avec-succes-un-missile-de-defense-aerienne-aster-30-9032/

 

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AQUILA: MBDA to lead consortium for European interceptor against hypersonic threats​

The extended air defence domain poses increasing challenges with fast-growing and complex threats, such as manoeuvring ballistic missiles, hypersonic cruise missiles and hypersonic glide vehicles. These new threats need to be addressed by dedicated interception solutions to ensure the efficient protection of domestic high value assets and operational deployments in the coming decades.


MBDA has worked for more than five years on innovative options for counter-hypersonic air-defence building on our expertise from the ASTER anti-missile interceptor and our deep knowledge of threats. This is the AQUILA project, proposing the most valuable counter-hypersonic interceptor concepts for European nations, alongside a global area defence portfolio with other MBDA air defence products.


HYDIS² is the HYpersonic Defence Interceptor Study proposed by MBDA with a consortium bringing together 19 partners and more than 30 subcontractors across 14 European countries


The members of the consortium are defence groups, institutions, SMEs, mid-caps and universities, all with strong, recognised expertise in the key technologies/areas needed for the purpose of the study of such a new interceptor. The consortium gathers the best competences in the domains of missiles from across the European Union, with the highest aeronautical scientific references, and actors in novel domains to take up the gauntlet of the counter-hypersonic challenge.


Eric Béranger, CEO of MBDA, said: “This project offers a significant European benefit, contributing to European resilience and technological sovereignty by enhancing co-operation and interoperability between EU countries. This project will also contribute to reinforcing the sovereign missile systems industry in Europe, by sustaining and developing critical expertise, technologies and materials; thus boosting European industrial competitiveness. The technologies in the hypersonic domain are evolving, and it is a priority for MBDA to remain at the forefront of innovation, guiding Europe towards the most efficient solution to counter hypersonic threats.”


The objective of HYDIS² is to design various interceptor concepts and mature the associated critical technologies to deliver the best interception solution that fulfils the four member states needs - France, Italy, Germany and The Netherlands - and copes with the European TWISTER capability programme. This is a central element of the contribution of European states to the mission of defence of populations and armed forces, in particular against the emerging hypersonic threats that constitute a radical change from ballistic ones.


France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands have already confirmed their support and commitment by signing a Letter of Intent and agreeing on Initial Common Requirements.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/aquila-mbda-to-lead-consortium-for-european-interceptor-against-hypersonic-threats/

 

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France, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia and Hungary sign a Letter of Intent for the joint acquisition of the Mistral 3 ground-based air defence system​

The Minister for the Armed Forces for France, and his counterparts from Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia and Hungary, on Monday 19 June 2023 signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) for the joint acquisition of the Mistral 3 ground-based air defence system.

Led by the French Ministry for the Armed Forces with support from MBDA, the intent is to implement a joint acquisition of Mistral 3 by the French procurement agency Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA) on behalf of all the partner countries.

Such an initiative is a concrete illustration of the European Council’s willingness, in the current geostrategic context at the borders of Europe, to reinforce through cooperation the defence capabilities of the European Union (EU) and its member states.

A joint acquisition could benefit from the EU support and allow scale economies to be made so as to incentivise Member States to procure defence products jointly while reinforcing the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB) competitiveness.

Eric Béranger, CEO of MBDA, said: “Cooperation is at the very heart of MBDA’s DNA, and I firmly believe that we are stronger together. This signature, and our plans to double Mistral annual production capacity, underlines the company’s continuous commitment to projects giving substance to the European defence agenda.”

Mistral 3, currently in service with the French armed forces, is an air defence missile equipped with an infrared imaging seeker and advanced image processing capabilities. It can engage low thermal signature targets such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), turbojet-powered missiles and fast attack craft at long range. It also offers excellent resistance to countermeasures.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/france-belgium-cyprus-estonia-and-hungary-sign-a-letter-of-intent-for-the-joint-acquisition-of-the-mistral-3-ground-based-air-defence-system-10190/

 

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MBDA welcomes Italy’s intent to join the FC/ASW programme​

MBDA welcomes the Italian Government’s intent to join France and the UK in the Future Cruise / Anti-Ship Weapon (FC/ASW) programme. A Letter of Intent (LOI) that enables the launch of the key preparatory work for Italy to join the programme was signed by the representatives of the three National Armament directions: Lieutenant General Luciano Portolano, Secretary General of Defence and National Armaments Director for Italy, Andy Start, UK National Armament Director and CEO of DE&S, and Emmanuel Chiva Chief executive of the Direction générale de l’armement, last week, during the Paris Air Show.



Participation in the FC/ASW programme will provide all three nations with a sovereign next generation deep strike and heavy anti-ship capability to counter advanced threats. The programme will support the three countries’ strategic co-operation on missile technologies, through MBDA as an integrated European defence champion.



Eric Beranger, CEO of MBDA said, “We are delighted with Italy’s intent to join the FC/ASW programme. Befitting our role as a champion of European defence co-operation – sharing technologies, capabilities, and expertise among our countries –we are pleased that this LoI opens the door for our Italian expertise to also be brought to bear in delivering this truly strategic defence capability for Europe. FC/ASW will meet the operational needs of the Italian, British and French armed forces in the deep strike and anti-ship domains for the decades to come.”



The FC/ASW programme began as a product of the Anglo-French defence relationship set out by the Lancaster House treaties. Last year France’s Direction générale de l’armement (DGA) and the UK’s Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) signed a government agreement and associated contracts that saw the launch of the preparation works/assessment phase for FC/ASW.


Complementary missile concepts are currently being assessed in order to meet the requirements of France, the UK and now Italy to provide game changing capabilities to overcome land-based and maritime threats, hardened targets and air defence systems, at very long ranges and in increasingly contested battlespace environments.


FC/ASW will augment MBDA’s portfolio of existing products that continue to evolve to adapt to new threats.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/mbda-welcomes-italys-intent-to-join-the-fcasw-programme/

 

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MBDA led consortium selected for France’s LARINAE project​

The French defence innovation agency AID (Agence de l'Innovation de Défense) has announced the selection of a consortium led by MBDA in response to the LARINAE call for projects. The objective of LARINAE is the rapid and collaborative development of a remotely controlled ammunition capable of neutralising a hardened target within a radius of fifty kilometres.


Following on from the success of the first COLIBRI call for projects, MBDA has confirmed its position in the field of remotely-controlled ammunitions with the selection of its MUTANT concept, based on a "Minimum Viable Product" approach and focused on user requirements. It confirms MBDA's choice of an agile approach, to respond to the need for a rapid, innovative and sovereign solution for the armed forces.


This new propelled and guided munition benefits from technologies developed by MBDA over many years, in particular the AKERON family, to ensure very high levels of performance in neutralising armoured and mobile targets, while guaranteeing operational reliability and complete safety.


MUTANT also takes advantage of the latest technological advances in the field of civil and military UAVs to produce a munition with the best cost/performance ratio.


Designed as a true man-in-the-loop weapon system, this solution, will offer complementary capabilities to land-based combat missiles in terms of targeting speed, manoeuvrability, endurance, range and enemy saturation capability. This remotely controlled ammunition, with its ability to strike beyond line-of-sight, is a natural complement to MBDA's portfolio of battlefield effectors such as the AKERON MP and LP.


The consortium is following French Ministerial Instruction 1618, which allows it to work with the armed forces and the DGA to define the best compromise between requirements and solutions, ensuring a rapid and effective response to the needs of the armed forces.


The ambitious demonstrations planned for 2024 under the LARINAE contract will benefit from the self-financed work carried out by MBDA since 2022, which has already enabled the first flights of the MUTANT MTO with the SME Delair. These advances will allow even faster progress and adaptation to the requirements of this new capability.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/mbda-led-consortium-selected-for-frances-larinae-project/

 

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EUROPEAN COOPERATION IN DEFENCE OCCAR CONTRACTS EUROSAM FOR ADDITIONAL SAMP/T NG SYSTEMS​

THE EUROPEAN LONG-RANGE SURFACE - AIR MISSILE DEFENCE SYSTEM HAS BEEN CHOSEN BY ITALIAN AIR FORCE


On 18 July 2023, OCCAR-EA Director Joachim Sucker and eurosam Managing Director Eva Bruxmeier signed the Amendment of the FSAF-PAAMS Sustainment & Enhancement (S&E) contract for the procurement of new generation ground based air defence systems SAMP/T NG for Italian Air Force. This procurement adds to the SAMP/T NG production ordered in January 2023 for the Italian Army and French Air and Space Force.


Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d'Armement (OCCAR) has awarded this amendment to the S&E contract, by delegation of Segretariato Generale della Difesa e Direzione Nazionale degli Armamenti (SEGREDIFESA) and Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA), to the Italo-French consortium eurosam; backed by its three shareholders MBDA France, MBDA Italia and Thales LAS France.


The contract was signed in the presence of SEGREDIFESA, DGA and Italian Air Force representatives as it sees this Armed Force joining as a new FSAF-PAAMS domestic user, following the Italian Army and Navy, the French Navy and Air and Space Force and the British Royal Navy.


With this contract, Italian Air Force will be equipped with SAMP/T NG ground-to-air defence capabilities, fitted with the Kronos Grand Mobile High Power radar from Leonardo (see note).


The SAMP/T NG system development, launched in 2021 in cooperation between France and Italy, is an enhancement of the SAMP/T system in service since 2010 and currently deployed in Europe and in the Middle-East. The SAMP/T NG system is based on:

• An enhanced missile to enlarge the ASTER family: the ASTER Block 1 NT (new technology) from MBDA including a new seeker and a new computer.
• An upgraded launcher.
• A 360-degree new multifunction rotating Active Electronically Scanned Array radar: the Kronos Grand Mobile High Power from Leonardo for Italy and the Ground Fire 300 from Thales for France.
• A common command and control module based on upgraded open command and control software architecture and enhanced connectivity.

The SAMP/T NG is designed to achieve all Ground-Based Air Defence missions with enhanced key capabilities. It is a long-range surface-to-air missile defence system able to:

• Offer a 350 km-plus aerial surveillance range and a 150 km-plus interception range.
• Operate in a dense civilian air environment, in cooperation with friendly military aircraft and fully integrated into air defence networks.
• Provide a 360-degree protection to armed forces and sensitive civil or military sites.
• Offer a dual capability to defeat simultaneously all types of targets, in any combination of types.
• Counter emerging and future threats as diverse as hypersonic missiles, manoeuvring ballistic missiles, re-entry vehicle ballistic missiles, high velocity cruise missiles, UAVs and highly manoeuvring aircraft, in a saturation attack scenario and a challenging cyber environment.
• Deploy quickly with a limited number of personnel and integrate easily in an air-defence network.

With these enhanced features, SAMP/T NG will provide to France, Italy and any other customer, the capability to guarantee their airspace sovereignty, to protect their territory and population and to protect their troops in operations.

Notes to readers:

• About eurosam :

eurosam was established in June 1989 as a joint venture of MBDA and Thales, European leaders in missiles, systems and radars, endowing it with major expertise in terms of solutions for air defence. eurosam is the industrial prime contractor and system design authority for the development, production, marketing, sales and in-service support of a range of medium and long range naval and ground-launched air-defence missile systems also known as Future Surface-to-Air Family of ASTER missile systems. These systems were developed under contract from the French and Italian Governments, who in the late 1980s had come to similar conclusions as to their air-defence operational requirements. This cooperation, enlarged to the UK in 1996, has experienced export successes, both in naval and land configurations.

• About the Kronos Grand Mobile High Power radar :

A member of the Kronos radar family, Leonardo’s Kronos Grand Mobile High Power is an enhanced version of the sensor, designed to meet evolving operational scenarios. Supported by Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, the multi-function, multi-mission C-band Kronos Grand Mobile High Power (GMHP) radar focuses mainly on surveillance and air defence in land and coastal environments.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/european-cooperation-in-defence-occar-contracts-eurosam-for-additional-sampt-ng-systems/

 

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HYDIS² consortium project for hypersonic defence interceptor proposed for funding by the European Commission​

In May 2023, the HYDIS² consortium, composed of 19 partners and more than 20 subcontractors across 14 European countries, submitted a proposal for a concept architecture and technology maturation study of an endo-atmospheric interceptor against new high-end emerging threats, in the framework of the European Defence Fund 2023 work programme. On the 12th of July 2023, following a positive evaluation, the European Commission proposed the project for funding.


The consortium, coordinated by MBDA, proposed HYDIS² (HYpersonic Defence Interceptor Study), a project that brings together Defence groups, institutions, SMEs, mid-caps and universities. It gathers the best competences in the domains of missiles from across the European Union. France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands have already confirmed their support and commitment by signing a Letter of Intent and agreeing on Initial Common Requirements.


The objective of HYDIS² is to study various interceptor concepts and bring to maturity the associated critical technologies to deliver the best counter-hypersonic and anti-ballistic interception solution that fulfils the four Member States needs and addresses the needs of the European PESCO TWISTER capability programme. This is a central element of the contribution of European states to the mission of defence of populations and armed forces, in particular against the emerging hypersonic threats that constitute a radical change from ballistic ones.


The HYDIS² consortium brings together 19 partners and more than 20 subcontractors in 14 European countries. The partners are ArianeGroup, AVIO, Avio Aero, Bayern-Chemie, CIRA, DLR, GKN Fokker, LYNRED, MBDA España, MBDA France, MBDA Germany, MBDA Italia, OHB System AG, ONERA, ROXEL France, THALES LAS France, TDW, THALES Netherlands and TNO.


HYDIS² contributes to the AQUILA interceptor project, proposing the most valuable counter-hypersonic interceptor concepts for European nations, alongside a global area defence portfolio with other MBDA air defence products.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/hydis2-consortium-project-for-hypersonic-defence-interceptor-selected-by-the-european-commission/

 

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MBDA and PGZ join forces on CAMM-MR development​

MBDA and PGZ have signed an agreement to co-operate on developing a new CAMM medium-range low-cost interceptor at MSPO 2023 in Kielce. The CAMM-MR missile is being designed to meet the needs of advanced ground and naval air defence at medium ranges.


The letter of intent between PGZ and MBDA follows on from the UK and Polish governments agreeing to progress development of a future common missile based on the Common Anti-air Modular Missile (CAMM) family as part of the UK–Poland 2030 strategic partnership.


The new CAMM-MR missile concept has been created under a contract from the Polish Ministry of National Defence, with the new missile intended to complement CAMM & CAMM-ER within the integrated air and missile defence (IAMD) capabilities of the MIECZNIK and PILICA+/NAREW/WISLA programmes.


Eric Béranger, CEO of MBDA, said: “This joint working on a new missile is a historic step for our companies and for the development of European solutions for the Defense of Europe. MBDA was created to champion the cross border development of missile systems in Europe and so we’re very proud to be working in concert with PGZ and Poland on this exciting new project.”


Sebastian Chwałek, President of the Management Board of PGZ S.A. said: “This particular LOI is intended to pave the road map of future activities that both PGZ and MBDA should undertake to engage in design, development and production of CAMM-MR. We also call this initiative as Future Common Missile to convey our aspiration it will serve both the Polish and British Armed Forces as common munition with dual source of production. This is a new chapter for PGZ and we are very motivated to engage especially in design and development with assets that we have at hand or being implemented right now e.g. HWIL Laboratory, as a solid and strategic partner of MBDA.”


Polish involvement in the future development of the CAMM family follows on from the successful UK-Italian co-operation that created CAMM-ER.


MBDA is currently working with PGZ to enhance Poland’s missile capabilities, including through the PILICA+, NAREW, MIECZNIK and OTTOKAR BRZOZA programmes backed by transfer of knowledge and technology from MBDA to Poland’s defence industry. This joint working is providing decisive military capabilities to Poland, driving significant value for money and boosting the Polish economy and high-skilled jobs.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/strongmbda-et-pgz-vont-travailler-ensemble-strong-strongau-developpement-du-camm-mrstrong-11205/

 

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MBDA’s SPEAR-EW moves to the next stage​

MBDA has received additional funding from the UK Ministry of Defence to accelerate the development of the SPEAR-EW stand-in jammer.


SPEAR-EW is a novel electronic warfare effector designed to confuse and suppress enemy air defence, protecting friendly forces and acting as a significant force multiplier.


The additional Rapid Design Phase funding will accelerate SPEAR-EW’s development, maturing all its key sub-systems, and perform mission and planning evaluation.


Chris Allam, Managing Director of MBDA UK, said: “SPEAR-EW will be a true game-changer for the suppression and defeat of enemy air defences. As we have seen lately, air defence networks are exceptionally hard to operate against with today’s toolkit: SPEAR-EW is the key that will enable allied air forces to unlock this challenge and gain air superiority”.


Dean Pask, Spear Senior Responsible Owner at the MOD, commented on the commitment: “By embracing collaborative partnering, agile methods, and strategic technology, we are steadfastly dedicated to ensuring that our front line commands receive critical capabilities in the most effective and efficient manner possible”.


The weapon’s electronic warfare payload is being developed by Leonardo and utilises the company’s Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) technology. This technology is mature, was proven effective in trials and will deliver the advanced sensing and electronic attack capabilities of SPEAR-EW. Operators will be able to use SPEAR-EW to jam enemy radar systems as well as deliver more subtle electronic warfare effects such as creating decoy targets to draw the attention of threat systems away from crewed aircraft or effectors.


Iain Bancroft, SVP Electronic Warfare at Leonardo UK, said: “SPEAR-EW will incorporate a world-class electronic warfare payload, designed and manufactured here in Luton, UK. Based on our experience providing on-board jamming capabilities for the Eurofighter Typhoon and, more recently, off-board jamming in the form of our BriteCloud expendable active decoy, our technology can reliably beat current threats while remaining adaptable for the threats of the future”


SPEAR-EW utilises the same airframe as MBDA’s SPEAR miniature cruise missile being manufactured for the Royal Air Force. This commonality has reduced the development costs for SPEAR-EW and is also enabling a joint integration/launcher solution, reducing logistics burden and offering a high load-out potential.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/mbdas-spear-ew-moves-to-the-next-stage/

 

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MBDA and Mitsubishi Electric agree collaboration for Effects domain to support the design of GCAP core-platform​

MBDA UK, MBDA Italia and Japan’s Mitsubishi Electric Corporation have announced at DSEI 2023 the signing of a collaboration agreement to work towards an Effects Domain to support the design of core-platform as part of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).


In this Effects domain, the three companies will work together to ensure the seamless integration of weapons for the GCAP platform.


Looking to the future, the collaboration will also include working on weapon effects management and related technologies.


The collaboration agreement is focused on aligning national approaches to Effector integration of the GCAP partners. It does not include the joint development of effectors.


MBDA, a world leader in complex weapon systems, has a long history of working collaboratively on major defence programmes. As part of the UK's Team Tempest effort at the start of 2018, and expanding in 2019 as Italy joined the growing programme, the company brings decades of experience in developing and integrating weapon systems for various Combat Air platforms.


Mitsubishi Electric is a recognised global leader in its field. The company played a key role in Japan's F-2 programme and has been involved in the development of Japan's F-X next-generation fighter programme. Now that Japan, the UK and Italy have joined forces to create the Global Combat Air Programme, Mitsubishi Electric is also working with Leonardo and Elt Group on GCAP's advanced electronics.


This experience and combined expertise will be fundamental in ensuring that the GCAP effects domain works in harmony with the platform's other domains - mission systems, sensors, power - exploiting the information advantage they will provide and together maximising mission effectiveness. Giving GCAP customers a decisive advantage in the Combat Air.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/mbda-and-mitsubishi-electric-agree-collaboration-for-effects-domain-to-support-the-design-of-gcap-core-platform/

 

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Bundeswehr successfully concludes laser weapon trials at sea​

Schrobenhausen, Düsseldorf 22 September 2023 - Laser Weapon Demonstrator (LWD) trials onboard the German frigate Sachsen have successfully been completed, following on from the integration of the LWD in June 2022.


The High-Energy Laser Naval Demonstrator Working Group (or ARGE), consisting of MBDA Deutschland GmbH and Rheinmetall, is responsible for development and construction of the LWD, and for supporting the trials that were planned and organised by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw).


During the trials, comprising six campaigns lasting nearly a year, the combat effectiveness of the LWD was proven in increasingly complex scenarios, under realistic operating conditions and against different target types. This included all LWD aspects: from detection and tracking (including highly agile targets); the interplay of sensors, command and weapon engagement systems, and effectors; possible rules of engagement; and of course the successful engagement of targets with a high-energy laser beam.


The LWD has performed more than a hundred test firings onboard the Sachsen and proved that a laser is capable of successfully engaging targets in a maritime environment. At the end of the trials, the LWD’s capabilities were successfully demonstrated at two VIP days in front of high-ranking representatives of the Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), the Germany Navy and Army, as well as the Bundeswehr Office for Defence Planning (PlgABw), which also included shooting down a drone. Also, representatives of the British, Netherlands, and Norwegian Navy participated during the demonstration. The huge success of the test campaign was due to excellent co-operation between the BAAINBw and its subordinate detachments, the German Navy and especially the crew of the frigate Sachsen, and ARGE, the industry working group.


Following nearly a year of tests, the BAAINBw and the defence industry have gained valuable knowledge into the operational possibilities, performance capabilities and development potential of high-energy laser effectors. The demonstrator is currently undergoing detailed examination, after which it will be transferred to Bundeswehr Technical Centre 91 in Meppen. The test results and subsequent analysis will be used for minimizing risks in a possible next phase i.e. the development of an operational laser weapon system.


The prerequisites for the development of a first laser weapon have generally been set. Both companies have launched internal preparations for the development phase within their own field of responsibility.


Complementing gun-based systems and guided missiles, an operational laser weapon system lends itself particularly well to countering the threat from drones, drone swarms, speedboats and possibly missiles at close to very close range. In the future it could also undergo a performance upgrade for destroying supersonic missiles, rockets and mortar and artillery rounds.


https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/bundeswehr-successfully-concludes-laser-weapon-trials-at-sea/

 

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Successful firing of new generation Exocet missile from French frigate​

A successful firing, by the French navy, of the latest generation of MBDA’s Exocet missile – Mer-Mer 40 Block 3c (MM40 B3c) – took place from the multi-mission Alsace frigate (FREMM DA) off the coast of the DGA missile test centre (DGA EM) of Ile du Levant on 20 September 2023.


Exocet MM40 B3c is the latest generation of MBDA’s Exocet family of anti-ship missiles for integration on a wide variety of platforms including surface ships, submarines, fast jets, helicopters and coastal batteries. Previous versions of Exocet are in service with several navies around the world.


The B3c generation builds on the successive improvements made to Exocet throughout its service. MM40 B3c includes all the characteristics for which Exocet is renowned, in particular its all-weather capability and high flexibility of use. In addition, this latest missile benefits from new seeker technology and the development of new algorithms designed to meet the latest operational requirements of anti-ship warfare.


MBDA CEO Eric Béranger said: “I am extremely proud of the success of this operational evaluation firing of the Exocet MM40 B3c, performed from the multi-mission Alsace frigate. It proves the new capabilities of the missile’s latest generation, whose major developments keep it at the forefront in a high-intensity context. Exocet is a real symbol for MBDA, and this success is further proof of the skill and technical excellence of MBDA’s people. I would also like to thank the DGA and French navy for this firing.”


MBDA has continued to develop Exocet since it entered service. This has enabled the missile to adapt to new battlefield conditions while maintaining its exceptional all-weather capability. The Exocet MM40 B3c is MBDA’s response to new conflicts with an evolving threat spectrum, in particular high-intensity combat in complex electronic warfare environments.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/successful-firing-of-new-generation-exocet-missile-from-french-frigate/

 

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MBDA’s Mistral missile to arm Korean helicopters​

MBDA has received a contract from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for the integration of the Mistral ATAM anti-air missile system on the Korean Marine Attack Helicopter (KMAH).


Eric Béranger, CEO of MBDA said: “We are proud to be partnered again with Korea Aerospace Industries to arm a Korean military aircraft. This contract cements Mistral ATAM’s place as a world’s leading helicopter launched anti-air missile system.”


Mistral ATAM is based on the Mistral short-range anti-air missile, known for its fire-and-forget engagement mode, ease of operation and unrivalled kill probability. The ATAM system includes two launchers per helicopter, each carrying two missiles. Man-portable Mistral air defence systems are also in-service with Republic of Korea’s Armed Forces.


MBDA is a world leader in missile systems, with over 60 years’ experience developing cutting-edge missiles in cross-border partnerships that makes the company a natural partner to accelerate domestic development programmes. MBDA and KAI are also working together to integrate the Meteor beyond visual range missile onto the KF-21 Boromae fighter aircraft.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/mbdas-mistral-missile-to-arm-korean-helicopters/

 

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MBDA and Poland sign landmark NAREW project​

MBDA has finalised an agreement with Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa S.A. (PGZ) for MBDA’s support for PGZ’s delivery of the NAREW air defence programme for the Polish Armed Forces.


NAREW will provide Poland with a highly advanced mobile air defence system capable of dealing with modern and future threats out to ranges beyond 40 km, utilising the CAMM-ER missile developed in cooperation between the UK and Italy. The PGZ-NAREW Consortium was awarded the executive contracts for NAREW in September from the Polish Armament Agency.


Today’s agreement enables PGZ to implement these executive contracts, valued in excess of £4 billion, by concluding the terms of MBDA’s unprecedented transfer of key technologies and knowledge to PGZ. It enables the PGZ-NAREW Consortium to make more than 1,000 CAMM-ER air defence missiles and over 100 launchers for the NAREW programme in Poland.


NAREW highlights the growing relationship between MBDA and PGZ and provides further evidence of the success of the Strategic Co-operation Agreement signed between the companies in 2017. The technology transfer in NAREW, and associated growth across Polish industries, is unique in the UK-Poland defence partnership and paves the way for deep ties on complex weapons with Poland.


Eric Béranger, CEO of MBDA, said: “The scale and ambition of NAREW is truly impressive – building a Polish air defence shield using our CAMM family missiles and iLaunchers that will protect the entirety of Poland’s skies. The transfer of technology in NAREW will be transformative for Poland’s sovereign complex weapons capabilities, and we are deeply proud of the trust placed in us by Poland and excited for the future of our partnership with the eleven members of the PGZ-NAREW Consortium.”


NAREW is the latest in a series of air defence projects utilising the CAMM missile family that MBDA and PGZ have been jointly contracted for in Poland. It follows from the Mała Narew urgent operational requirement contract placed in 2022 and now in service, the PILICA+ short-range air defence system contracted earlier in 2023, work on the MIECZNIK frigate programme, and studies for the future joint development of CAMM-MR. In addition MBDA and PGZ are also co-operating for the OTTOKAR BRZOZA tank destroyer project.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/mbda-and-poland-sign-landmark-narew-project/

 

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TDW to significantly ramp up PARM production​

MBDA subsidiary TDW GmbH has been awarded a contract to produce and deliver 2,600 PARM to the German Armed Forces. TDW and the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support signed the contract on 14 November 2023, marking the beginning of the procurement.


“TDW provides core competences in the field of anti-access/area-denial systems and warheads. With the procurement, PARM is in the process of returning to serial production, making it the most available, most powerful roadside counter-mobility system on the market” stated Thomas Gottschild, Managing Director MBDA Germany.


“The order intake marks a first milestone of the ramp up of our production capacities. PARM strengthens TDW’s market position as a leading warhead company in Europe. We are convinced that PARM will help Germany, as well as other nations, develop and expand their area denial capabilities” commented Andreas Seitz, Managing Director of TDW.


PARM is a fully automated anti-tank effector that can defeat modern Main Battle Tanks. Its warhead, fuzing mechanism and sensor kit meet the technical and operational demands of today. A single soldier is able to carry PARM and the system requires little training and is combat proven. Through its modular design, PARM can easily be adapted with different sensors and a remote control.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/tdw-to-significantly-ramp-up-parm-production/

 

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Sweden orders MBDA’s CAMM air defence missile​

MBDA is pleased to announce it has signed a contract in Sweden to deliver Common Anti-air Modular Missiles (CAMMs) for the Swedish Armed Forces.


The contract - signed between MBDA and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration FMV (Swedish: Försvarets materielverk) - will see MBDA supply CAMM for the Royal Swedish Navy’s five Visby Class Corvettes, which will deploy them from MBDA’s Sea Ceptor naval air defence system.


Sea Ceptor is a latest generation naval air defence system, providing robust self- and local area- air defence against simultaneous attacks, including saturation attacks, across the full 360° threat axis. With a wide target set from supersonic anti-ship missiles to attack helicopters and un-crewed air vehicles, the system has been designed to counter advanced threats.


Eric Beranger, CEO of MBDA, said: “CAMM will provide Sweden and the Royal Swedish Navy with a formidable air defence capability that gives the country a strong new contribution to NATO together with other allied Sea Ceptor users like the Royal Navy from the United Kingdom. We’re proud also to be continuing our long history of partnership with Sweden and Swedish industry, including Saab.”


MBDA has a long history of partnership with Sweden. This is exemplified within the MBDA-led Meteor missile programme where Sweden is a strategic and valued partner nation. Sweden’s SAAB is also a member of the joint partnership with MBDA on the TAURUS cruise missile. Co-operation with Sweden also includes AKERON MP.


Sweden joins a growing list of militaries worldwide that have chosen to rely on the CAMM family for latest generation naval and ground based air defence, including major recent orders from Poland, as well as the UK, Italy, Canada, Brazil, and more.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/sweden-orders-mbdas-camm-air-defence-missile/

 

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MBDA and KAI to deepen co-operation​

MBDA and Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) have signed an agreement to deepen co-operation. The agreement will see the companies explore new opportunities for the integration of new MBDA weapons onto KAI platforms and the export of both together via a joint marketing approach.


The agreement was signed on Monday 20th November by Chris Allam, Managing Director of MBDA UK, and Kang Goo-young, CEO of KAI, in London during a Korean State visit to the UK.

Eric Béranger, CEO of MBDA, said: “The combination of MBDA’s world leading weapon products and technologies with KAI’s proven record of new aircraft development and rapid delivery is an exciting prospect for the world defence market, reflecting the shared values and interests of both parties.”

Kang Goo-young declared: “Recently, there has been growing global demand for various armaments. We will work with MBDA to propose enhanced domestic fighter aircraft to our customers.”

MBDA is already committed to working together with KAI to complete successfully the integration of MBDA’s Meteor beyond visual range air-to-air missile on the KAI-led KF-21 Boromae fighter aircraft.


Examples of new areas of co-operation being explored under the new agreement include the integration of new MBDA weapons such as SPEAR, ASRAAM, and Brimstone onto KAI platforms such as KF-21 and FA-50, and the export of the above platforms and missiles.


https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/mbda-and-kai-to-deepen-co-operation/

 

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MBDA’s Sea Ceptor to protect Poland’s Miecznik frigates​

MBDA has been awarded a contract by Poland to equip the Polish Navy’s three new Miecznik-class frigates with MBDA’s Sea Ceptor naval air defence system.


Sea Ceptor is a latest generation naval air defence system that protects naval vessels and consorts from modern air and surface threats, such as supersonic anti-ship missiles and unmanned surface vessels.


The contract builds upon a series of strategic agreements between MBDA and Poland around MBDA’s CAMM family of air defence missiles. Poland will take advantage of the interoperability of CAMM, designed specifically for both land and maritime domains, by utilising its already procured CAMM missiles stockpiles to equip Miecznik. CAMM will be efficiently installed on board with a quadpacking solution in Mk41 VLS (Vertical Launching System) enabling a high load-out and increasing platform survivability.


MBDA is working with PGZ to create a sovereign missile capability in Poland through the NAREW programme backed by unprecedented transfer of knowledge and technology from MBDA. The use of the CAMM family for PILICA+, NAREW and MIECZNIK programmes will drive significant efficiencies for Poland while boosting Polish industry and providing high-skilled jobs. The contract for Miecznik further demonstrates the strategic relationship between MBDA and PGZ, which includes also joint work on a future medium range CAMM missile, and the strength of the UK-Polish defence co-operation.


Many militaries worldwide have chosen to rely on the CAMM family for latest generation naval and ground based air defence, including Poland, as well as the UK, Italy, Canada, Brazil, and more recently Sweden.

https://newsroom.mbda-systems.com/mbdas-sea-ceptor-to-protect-polands-miecznik-frigates/