UK successfully fires SPEAR 3 missile in first trial
SPEAR is MDBA’s response to a part of the UK’s Selective Precision Effects at Range (SPEAR) air launched requirement. (Photo: MBDA)
MBDA’s next-generation cruise missile will be fitted to the UK’s F-35B fighter jets, allowing them to hit targets from land and Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, according to the UK Ministry of Defence MoD.
The UK MoD has announced the first successful guided firing of MBDA’s SPEAR 3 air-to-surface missile. It completed the trial on a BAE Systems-operated Typhoon at Vidsel range in Sweden, the MoD said, marking the first time the weapon had been fired against a target.
According to MBDA, each of the SPEAR missiles can hit a target from 100km, and have been designed to be used against a range of targets such as air defence units, main battle tanks, naval vessels and defended structures.
Luke Pollard, UK minister for the armed forces, said: “The successful trial of the pioneering SPEAR missile marks a significant leap forward in UK Armed Forces’ capabilities, ensuring our Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel are equipped with cutting-edge technology to protect our nation.”
Once entered into service, the SPEAR missiles will be installed on the UK’s F-35Bs, which will be able to carry eight of these missiles at a time, the MoD claimed.
SPEAR is part of a wider portfolio which supports approximately £6.5 billion (US$8.2 billion) planned investment in the UK weapons industry by the MoD, which includes other missile programmes such as the Brimstone, CAAM, Sea Viper and Storm Shadow.
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