At the Euronaval-Online exhibition, MBDA proudly introduces its cutting-edge VL MICA NG air defense system. This new system significantly enhances the existing VL MICA platform by integrating the advanced MICA NG (New Generation) anti-air missile, which was initially developed in 2018 to equip France’s Rafale combat aircraft. With the VL MICA family now utilized by 15 armed forces across the globe in both naval and land-based variants, this upgrade will fortify defenses against emerging threats.
MBDA CEO Eric Béranger stated, “Having spent two years developing the New Generation MICA missile, we have gained extensive insight into its capabilities. This enables us to confidently market its integration into VL MICA ground-to-air or surface-to-air defense systems. Complete compatibility between the two missile generations allows armed forces to seamlessly integrate them into existing systems, maximizing their return on investment.”
The VL MICA NG system incorporates innovative technologies that enhance its performance against unconventional targets such as UAVs and small aircraft, in addition to future threats characterized by low observable infrared and radio frequency signatures. It improves interception capabilities of traditional targets—including aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and anti-ship missiles—at greater distances than the current VL MICA system.
The MICA NG munition maintains its original dimensions, allowing it to be easily integrated into current VL MICA launchers. The established missile data link mechanisms are fully compatible with the advanced kinematic performance of the new missiles, enabling straightforward software updates to upgrade existing VL MICA systems to the VL MICA NG standard.
MICA NG Missile Overview
The MICA NG missile features a completely new design while retaining the external dimensions and innovative concept that have contributed to the MICA anti-air missile’s success over the past 25 years. This concept enables the missile to incorporate either an infrared or a radio frequency seeker within the same missile body, allowing operators to choose the optimal response based on the adversary’s tactics.
Equipped with a new infrared seeker utilizing a matrix sensor, the MICA NG ensures heightened sensitivity. Additionally, a new radio frequency seeker, featuring an active electronically scanned antenna (AESA), supports intelligent detection strategies. The reduced volume of electronic components allows for an increased propellant load, significantly enhancing the missile’s range. The newly designed dual-pulse rocket motor delivers extra energy at the end of its flight path, elevating its maneuverability and long-range interception capabilities.
In surface-to-air mode, the MICA NG can effectively intercept targets located more than 40 km away. Furthermore, maintenance and ownership costs are dramatically lowered through built-in sensors that continuously track the munition’s status throughout its lifecycle.
Series production of the MICA NG missile is slated to begin in 2026.
MBDA stands out as the only European group capable of designing and producing missile systems meeting the comprehensive operational requirements of land, sea, and air forces. With a robust presence in five European nations and the USA, MBDA achieved a revenue of 3.2 billion euros in 2018, supported by an impressive order book worth 17.4 billion euros. The company is collaboratively owned by Airbus (37.5%), BAE Systems (37.5%), and Leonardo (25%).
