Next-generation cruise missiles to be developed within the scope of MBDA’s FC/ASW programme will not only be deployed from fighter jets but also from warships.
Naval News reported that the subsonic stealthy cruise missile and supersonic one to be developed within the scope of the FC/ASW programme as a successor to the Storm Shadow/SCALP EG cruise missiles and legacy anti-ship missiles (RGM-84 Harpoon, MM39/40 Exocet) will be available to Royal Navy and French Navy ships in addeurfarition to fighter jets.
Two types of missiles are being developed, RJ10 (Supersonic) and TP15 (Stealthy Subsonic), jointly under the roof of MBDA. Italy is expected to join the U.K. and France in the development of the two next-generation cruise missiles.
RJ10, mainly intended for the anti-ship role, will use a ramjet engine to reach speeds in excess of Mach 3 and a range of 300+ km. The guidance will consist of an RF seeker in development, which is planned to allow the engagement of bulky high-value aircraft like AEW&C in addition to the intended anti-ship role.
TP15, as a slower but longer-ranged and stealthier missile, features an external layout to minimise radar cross-section. The missile, mainly intended for land targets with an IIR seeker, will keep a secondary anti-ship capability. Thus, it can be regarded as the direct successor to Storm Shadow/SCALP EG.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor:Özgür Ekşi
