“MBDA Secures Landmark Deal to Equip UK Royal Navy’s Type 26 Frigates with SEA CEPTOR Technology”

MBDA has successfully obtained a £100M Demonstration and Manufacturing agreement from the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) for the Sea Ceptor air defense system, designated for the UK Royal Navy’s (RN) latest frigate class, the Type 26 (T26) Global Combat Ship (GCS). This advanced missile system is set to be the primary air defense for the T26 and nearby vessels against advanced aerial threats, such as sea-skimming anti-ship missiles, fast jets, helicopters, and UAVs.

This contract further underscores the confidence in the performance and dependability of the Sea Ceptor system and its CAMM (Common Anti-air Modular Missile) munition by the UK MOD and the RN.

The Demonstration and Manufacturing contract will span over a decade, encompassing support for T26 design as well as production of the essential electronic systems required for a fleet of eight vessels.

Expressing excitement over the contract announcement, James Allibone, MBDA’s UK Sales & Business Development Director, remarked: “This investment in the Sea Ceptor system is poised to equip the Royal Navy and allied naval forces with outstanding air defense capabilities. Via the Portfolio Management Agreement with the UK MOD, MBDA is providing a cohesive missile solution for both naval and land applications, significantly reducing costs in comparison to the development of separate systems.”

With Sea Ceptor now chosen for five distinct naval platform types globally, MBDA sees additional opportunities for the system and the CAMM missile family with other navies. Dave Armstrong, MBDA Executive Group Director of Sales & Business Development and UK Managing Director, comments: “Naval air defense is becoming increasingly crucial due to the growing capabilities of aerial threats. The operational flexibility and straightforward integration of CAMM, whether as a retrofit or on a new platform, offer unmatched product advantages. Clients understand they are investing in a product that leads its lifecycle, incorporating the latest air defense technology, supported by continuous enhancements for at least the next thirty years or longer.”