The Evolved Seasparrow Missile (ESSM) Block 2 has successfully intercepted a BQM-74E aerial target as part of its maiden live fire test, which was conducted by the Nato Seasparrow Project Office.

The trial represents the first ESSM flight test to be carried out using the new Block 2 active guidance seeker-head.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

It follows the successful completion of two controlled test-vehicle flight tests in June last year.

The ESSM Block 2 solution is able to use both semi-active and active guidance systems in order to address current and anticipated future threats.

"The project is intended to help member nations to reduce the costs and risks associated with the development of weapon systems."

Additional live fire tests are now planned to bring the ESSM Block 2 missile into production.

Nato Seasparrow Project project manager captain Bruce Schuette said: “This flight test is critical to demonstrating the technology for the ESSM Block 2.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“I am very proud of the entire Nato Seasparrow Project Team, from our industry partners to our field activities and test facilities, for all the extensive work that went into making this event a success.”

In addition to the US, a total of 11 other nations are participating in the Nato Seasparrow Project, namely Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Turkey.

Nato member nations are currently assisting the project by supporting the engineering, development, production and sustainment of the missiles and its related equipment.

The project is intended to help member nations to reduce the costs and risks associated with the development of weapon systems.

Seasparrow is a surface-to-air missile system that is primarily used to meet the threat posed by cruise missiles to high-value ships.