First SPEAR-3 Stand Off Missile Test Fire Successful
The SPEAR-3 stand off cruise missile, developed to be equip the F-35 and other platforms, has been test fired in Sweden at the Vidsel test range, for the first time in mid October. The successful test fire was conducted using a BAE Systems Typhoon test and evaluation aircraft using a telemetry unit rather than a live warhead. This is first time that the weapon system had been fired at a target from high speed and high altitude, this marks a significant step forward of the programme.
It is planned that each UK F-35B will be able to carry up to eight SPEARs. The SPEAR-3’s development, however, is behind schedule with the expected 2025 date for full operational capability now pushed back 3 years to at least 2028. This means the UK’s F35s will be without a stand off weapon during this time.
Dean Pask, the leader of the MOD’s team for SPEAR, said:
“This guided firing represents a major step in the capability development of the SPEAR programme, and is the first in a campaign of firings to demonstrate the missile’s capabilities. The success of this test is a testament to the hard work and collaborative efforts of our industry partners at MBDA and BAE Systems, as well as MOD personnel across multiple teams.”
The SPEAR-3 is being produced by the UK division of MBDA and has been in development in some form since the mid 00s with the project hitting many bumps along the way including the first live firing delay back in June 2022. The total cost of the programme since its inception standing at £1.4 billion. A post by the Ministry of Defence’s X account further details the missiles capability:
‘SPEAR is a next generation cruise missile and can hit targets from 100km away. It’s designed to be used against a range of targets, including air defences, ships, tanks, defended structures and fast-moving vehicles.’
The post also showed a short video clip of the system being test fired.
Mike Mew, Tactical Strike Director of MBDA, said: “SPEAR is a truly unique weapon system – the first to offer the range, flexibility, precision and load-out to defeat modern enemy air defences,” Mew added, “the success of this trial is thanks to excellent joint working from teams across MOD, BAE Systems and MBDA.”
It is currently unclear when the weapon will finally be ready for operational use but other SPEAR operators include the Italian Navy and Saudi Air Force.