Italy’s Naval Armaments Directorate has officially contracted MBDA for the production of TESEO MK2/E anti-ship missiles, a significant development intended to enhance the capabilities of the Italian Navy. This contract will equip a variety of naval vessels, including the advanced FREMM EVO-class frigates, the Multi-Purpose Combat Ship (MPCS/PPA), and the soon-to-be-introduced DDX-class destroyers.
The TESEO MK2/E missile will complement the existing TESEO Mk2/A variant, which is already operational on the navy’s FREMM and Horizon-class frigates. This new contract follows a previous agreement from 2021 that focused on the development, integration, and qualification of the TESEO Mk2/E system.
Lorenzo Mariani, MBDA’s Executive Group Director of Sales & Business Development and Managing Director in Italy, emphasized the significance of this production commencement. He noted that the readiness of the TESEO MK2/E indicates not just its compliance with the Italian Navy’s requirements but also enhances MBDA’s product portfolio, potentially attracting interest from foreign markets.
The TESEO Mk2/E is designed to address evolving maritime threat profiles over the next two decades, providing the Italian fleet with an effective long-range maritime strike option, as well as a precision land-attack capability. It features a dual-mode homing head that combines a coherent radio-frequency seeker with advanced electronic counter-countermeasure capability and an electro-optical sensor. This sophisticated integration allows for high-precision terminal engagement against both maritime and land targets.
Moreover, the missile boasts an advanced navigation system that combines Inertial Navigation System (INS) and Global Positioning System (GPS) with a radar altimeter. This setup allows for stable sea-skimming flight at high subsonic speeds, as well as precise trajectories when flying over land.
In terms of operational capabilities, the TESEO Mk2/E features an innovative mission-planning suite that enhances reaction times and automatically generates firing solutions. It also allows weapon-system operators to adjust mission parameters in real-time in response to the evolving tactical landscape. A secure two-way data link facilitates in-flight updates and target reassignment, granting flexibility in mission execution.
The missile maintains a cruising speed at high subsonic velocities and is capable of executing high-G terminal maneuvers. Its effective sea-skimming range exceeds 350 kilometers (217 miles). The warhead is designed to deliver a scalable semi-piercing or high-explosive effect, enabling it to effectively engage hardened ship structures while minimizing collateral damage against softer land targets.
This initiative represents a major advancement for the Italian Navy’s strategic capabilities in the maritime domain, positioning it to meet future threats head-on.
