Article Posted on : - Jun 16, 2010

The first test firing of the SCALP Naval missile. Photo: DGA Missile Tests

BISCAROSSE (BNS): The first test firing of the SCALP Naval missile was carried out successfully by the French DGA (Direction Générale de l’Armement) at its Biscarosse test range on 28th May 2010.

The firing was carried out using a FREMM frigate configuration from a production series Sylver A70 launcher, according to a French DGA news report on Tuesday.

As a result of this successful test, the maturity of the weapon system’s definition as well as the technology options selected by MBDA have been validated.

The launch has also validated SCALP Naval’s interface with the operational Sylver launcher.

"MdCN is a major programme for MBDA. The total success of this first SCALP Naval firing demonstrates our ability to maintain the highest level of technology as well as a strong industrial base in France, both coming together in response to the country’s strategic needs", Antoine Bouvier, CEO of MBDA, was quoted as saying in the report.

SCALP Naval is a development for the French Navy’s naval cruise missile MdCN (Missile de Croisière Naval) programme.

The SCALP Naval munition is a development covering two configurations responding to the French Navy’s mission needs, comprising a vertical launch variant destined for surface vessels such as the FREMM frigate and a sub-surface / air transition version to arm the nuclear-powered Barracuda attack submarine.