The Teseo MK2/E missile system has been successfully test-fired for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the Italian Navy’s multi-year development program. The new-generation missile, an evolution of the Teseo missile family—known internationally as OTOMAT—represents a substantial enhancement in the anti-ship capabilities of Italy’s naval forces.
The test firing, carried out in cooperation with the Italian Navy, was a key step in validating the new design elements of the missile, including its advanced aerodynamics. Wind tunnel testing results were confirmed, paving the way for the qualification of the missile’s new airframe and propulsion system, expected to be completed by next year.
The Teseo MK2/E brings a range of new capabilities and improvements, notably through the integration of an AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Antenna) RF seeker. This will significantly enhance the missile’s effectiveness, allowing for shorter reaction times and improved mission planning. A key feature of the missile system is its ability to receive in-flight control via a satellite data link, extending its operational flexibility and mission scope.
One of the standout features of the Teseo MK2/E is its extended range, which allows for long-range strikes against both sea and land targets. This capability offers greater safety for naval crews, enabling deep strikes to neutralize threats from fixed, mobile, or reinforced ground positions. The missile’s extended reach and flexibility make it a powerful asset for modern naval forces, especially in complex and evolving threat environments.
Developed in close collaboration with the Italian Navy, the Teseo MK2/E is designed to equip Italy’s next-generation warships, including the new PPA (Multi-Purpose Combat Ship) and DDX destroyers. It will also be deployed on the FREMM (European multi-role frigates) and Horizon class naval units. In the future, the missile will be integrated into the new FREMM EVO frigates and can be customized for international customers.
Thanks to its advanced capabilities, the Teseo MK2/E missile system is poised to set a new standard in the anti-ship weaponry market. Its flexibility and wide range of mission applications make it an ideal complement to MBDA’s broader portfolio of naval defence systems.
Giovanni Soccodato, Executive Group Director for Sales and Business Development and Managing Director of MBDA Italia, commented on the successful test firing, saying: “This first test of the Teseo MK2/E demonstrates the validity of the project, confirms our development roadmap, and presents a cutting-edge naval defence product capable of countering the most sophisticated threats. It also underlines once again how working in synergy with the customer brings results that perfectly meet their requirements. The decision by our Navy to equip the Teseo MK2/E with the new AESA seeker has made it possible to develop Italian skills in the deep strike domain and will allow our country to participate in the FC/ASW programme in collaboration with France and the UK, contributing high added-value support and significant technological content.”
With its advanced capabilities and strategic relevance, the Teseo MK2/E missile system is set to become a key player in modern naval defense, offering enhanced performance for the Italian Navy and positioning MBDA as a leader in the global anti-ship armaments market.
