UK Navy Missile System used to destroy Red Sea drones to be upgraded

The UK Navy's Sea Viper Air Defence system, lauded for its recent success in neutralizing multiple hostile drones in the Red Sea, is set to undergo a substantial upgrade. Valued at £405 million, the upgrade program involves three contracts awarded to MBDA UK, aimed at enhancing the Sea Viper's capability on Type 45 warships and ensuring in-service support for the next five years.

The upgraded system will feature new missiles equipped with advanced warheads and software updates, enabling it to effectively counter ballistic missile threats. This enhancement is crucial for safeguarding the UK’s Carrier Strike group, with the Sea Viper system capable of tracking, targeting, and destroying various air threats over a range of 70 miles.

The contracts are expected to make Sea Viper the most advanced naval air defence system ever developed for the Royal Navy, reinforcing its vital role in protecting busy shipping lanes. In recent weeks, the system played a pivotal role in defending against multiple drone attacks in the Red Sea.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving situation in the Middle East and highlighted Sea Viper's significance in ensuring the safety of the UK, allies, and partners. The contracts will also support the growth of the UK economy by sustaining 350 jobs, including highly skilled technology roles in Stevenage, Cowes, Bristol, and Bolton.

The Sea Viper upgrades will involve collaboration between MBDA teams in the UK, France, and Italy, alongside colleagues from BAE Systems. The enhancements aim to deliver Ballistic Missile Defence Capability, countering complex threats and enhancing cooperation with key partners.

The initial phase of the contract involves upgrading the Royal Navy's existing Aster 30 missiles to Aster 30 Block 1, allowing defense against anti-ship ballistic missile threats. Subsequent stages will evaluate the introduction of the new Aster 30 Block 1NT missile, currently under development with France and Italy, featuring an advanced seeker for enhanced ballistic missile defense capabilities.

The Sea Viper evolution is anticipated to reach full operational capability on the Type 45 destroyers by Autumn 2032, reinforcing the Royal Navy's commitment to staying ahead of evolving threats in the global defense landscape.