European missile house MBDA unveiled the latest generation of its famous Exocet anti-ship missile family at the Euronaval 2024 exhibition, held in Paris from 4 to 7 November.
The Exocet SM40, a brand new submarine-launched missile for anti-ship and surface warfare, features two main changes compared to the current-generation SM39 Exocet while retaining the operational advantages that contributed to the success of the SM39, such as the ability to fire at extreme depths or from brown water. Firstly, the Exocet SM40 integrates the latest technologies developed for the MM40 Block 3C surface-launched Exocet, including a new coherent J-band radio-frequency seeker and associated missile algorithms developed for high-intensity context. The Exocet SM40 will thus benefit from a renewed capability to discriminate and identify targets in complex and highly demanding electronic warfare environments.
Secondly, the SM40 also features a doubled range in the class of 120 km through the use of a new propulsion system with a turbojet engine to regain a stand-off distance for anti-submarine warfare, in which the capability of surface ships to detect a submarine has increased significantly in recent years.
“These new capabilities are essential to ensure submarine self-protection against all kinds of modern and future threats and defeat highly defended vessels,” MBDA stated in a press release.
To secure a fast time to market and minimise integration work, the Exocet SM40 uses the same launch envelope as the SM39 in the form of a propelled and guided underwater vehicle.
“MBDA is providing Naval Group submarines with game-changing capability for the next decade based on a well-proven solution for customers,” the company stated. “With this new missile, Exocet remains navies’ life insurance at sea, whenever, wherever and in any weather conditions.”
