The Senegalese Navy has made significant strides in enhancing its maritime defense capabilities by successfully executing its inaugural test launch of an anti-ship missile. This groundbreaking event marks a pivotal advancement for the country’s naval forces.
In a demonstration of its newfound capabilities, a 58 S-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) was used to launch the missile, aimed at a decommissioned CTM landing craft that had been loaded with shipping containers. The test resulted in a direct impact that ignited the mock target; however, it remained afloat after the strike.
The Senegalese Navy declared the successful launch as a testament to its operational readiness, emphasizing its ongoing dedication to national sovereignty. A post on social media platform X highlighted this historic milestone in the evolution of the Navy, referring to the successful missile launch as a major step forward.
This new capability significantly enhances Senegal’s ability to safeguard its extensive maritime territory, which spans nearly 200,000 square kilometers (77,220 square miles). The region is rich in fisheries and is on the brink of discovering hydrocarbon resources, making it a hotbed for illegal fishing, maritime trafficking, piracy, and other strategic conflicts over offshore energy assets.
The missile launch aligns with Naval Strategy 2050, a long-term initiative aimed at modernizing Senegal’s naval forces to achieve a fully capable and strategically self-sufficient maritime defense.
This development follows the delivery in April 2024 of the third and final 58 S-class OPV by the French shipbuilder Piriou. The 62-meter (203-foot) vessel is equipped with the MBDA’s MARTE MK2/N anti-ship missile, which boasts a strike range of approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles). Additionally, the OPV includes vital systems such as the SIMBAD-RC air defense system, armed with MISTRAL missiles, and a 360-degree panoramic bridge, enhancing its situational awareness and combat readiness.
The versatile vessels are additionally designed to conduct various operations, including maritime rescue missions, counter-trafficking efforts, and anti-pollution interventions, further solidifying Senegal’s commitment to securing its maritime domain and protecting its resources.
