Article Posted on : - Sep 24, 2011

Exocet MM40 Block 3 missile. Photo: MBDA.

WASHINGTON (BNS): The Qatari Emiri Navy will procure a batch of Exocet MM40 Block 3 missiles to equip its fleet of four Vita class Patrol Boats, US missile developer MBDA has said.

The new Exocet MM40 Block 3 is a latest generation of naval superiority missile. Its turbojet propulsion provides a significantly extended range and due to its GPS navigation it is able to strike a target designated by its geographical coordinates, while remaining compatible with existing MM40 launchers, MBDA said.

The EXOCET family has an OTH (Over The Horizon) firing capability and a range of other operational benefits including, low radar signature, late seeker activation, sea-skimming at very low altitude, enhanced target selection and ECCM (Electronic counter-countermeasures), high penetration capability against modern naval air defences.

MM40 Block3 has been ordered by the French Navy and will equip its variant of the Franco-Italian FREMM frigate. The French navy has carried out an operational firing of an Exocet MM40 Block3 from its Horizon class Chevalier Paul frigate.