A significant milestone was achieved by the Royal New Zealand Navy recently, as a helicopter successfully fired a Penguin anti-ship guided missile for the first time since the acquisition of the weapon in 2013. The Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite maritime helicopter conducted the launch during training exercises last week, marking a notable advancement for the naval forces.
Following the test, the helicopter returned to HMNZS Te Kaha, an Anzac-class frigate, which is set to be deployed alongside the service’s Combined Task Force 150 in the Arabian Sea. This deployment aims to enhance maritime patrol efforts with a specific focus on identifying and surveilling suspicious vessels, playing a crucial role in maintaining security and order in the region.
In this operation, the Seasprite’s primary responsibilities encompass maritime patrols and providing force protection as the frigate engages in tasks aimed at combating illegal narcotics and arms smuggling by terrorists and criminal organizations. The successful integration of the Penguin missile into their operational capabilities represents a strategic enhancement in the New Zealand Defence Force’s arsenal.
The Penguin Mk2 Mod 7 anti-ship missiles were ordered from Kongsberg in 2013 to replace the older AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles. However, the missile’s operational deployment was delayed due to a necessary re-motoring program, which involved upgrades to the missile’s rocket motor. This program was initially scheduled for completion in early 2024, with the first successful launch participated in February 2025.
The Penguin missile, powered by a solid rocket engine, boasts an impressive operational range exceeding 34 kilometers (approximately 21 miles) and is equipped with a 120-kilogram (264 pounds) warhead that detonates upon reaching the target, thanks to a delay fuze. Measuring 120.48 inches (3.06 meters) in length and weighing 847 pounds (385 kilograms), the missile is recognized within the US military as the AGM-119. The operational usage of the missile signifies a pivotal enhancement in the capabilities of the Royal New Zealand Navy, equipping them to better tackle maritime threats and contributing to international maritime security efforts.
