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 G�n�rale 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 Croisi�re 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.