Italy is preparing to add the new generation TESEO MK2/E anti-ship missiles to its inventory, which will significantly increase the defense and offensive capabilities of its navy. European defense company MBDA has signed a critical contract with Italy’s National Directorate for Naval Armaments for the production of the missile. This marks the final step following the signing of a contract for R&D and integration of the missile in 2021.
Integration to Next Generation Platforms
TESEO MK2/E missiles will be integrated into the Italian Navy’s most modern and future-proof ship platforms:
- FREMM EVO class frigates.
- Multi-purpose destroyer platforms (MPCS/PPA).
- The next generation of DDX destroyers.
They will also complement the previous variant MK2/A, which is already in service on FREMM and Horizon-class ships.
TESEO MK2/E: Long Range and Dual Mode Capability
TESEO MK2/E was developed as a completely new weapon system to meet the requirements of the Italian Navy and perfectly complements MBDA’s portfolio. The technological highlights of the missile are as follows:
- AESA Seeker Head: Thanks to its active phased array radar (AESA) seeker technology, it can operate against sea and land targets at long ranges.
- Deep Strike Capability: In addition to standard anti-ship missions, it offers a secondary deep strike capability.
- Data Link Control: It has a bi-directional data link that allows in-flight control, target update, reassignment and mission termination via satellite data link.
- Guidance System: It can attack with high accuracy with a dual-mode guidance system that combines an RF seeker with advanced ECCM (Electronic Counter Counter Countermeasures) capabilities and a high-precision electro-optical sensor.
Performance and Sustainability
TESEO MK2/E has been developed to provide solutions to various mission requirements that may arise over the next 20 years.
- Speed and Altitude: Capable of cruising at altitudes close to sea level, it has a high subsonic cruise speed and high-G terminal maneuverability.
- Range: Effective range can exceed 350 km.
- Navigation: Fully autonomous integrated INS/GPS, radio-altimeter-based navigation and self-adaptive sea level descent and overland passage capabilities.
- Warhead: Scalable semi-penetrating/high explosive.
MBDA’s Statement to the International Market
Lorenzo Mariani, Executive Group Director of Sales and Business Development at MBDA and Managing Director of MBDA Italy, expressed his pride in the contract, confirming that the missile fully meets the requirements of the Italian Navy and that the product has matured. Mariani stated that this new capability is a new reference point in the field of naval defense technologies and that this capability can also be offered to foreign markets.
The start of production of the TESEO MK2/E is an important step that will take the Italian Navy’s operational flexibility and striking power to a new level.
