Paris Unveils New Submarine-Launched Missile SM40 to Enhance Naval Warfare Capabilities
PARIS — European defense contractor MBDA has officially announced the development of the SM40, a state-of-the-art submarine-launched missile designed specifically to engage heavily protected naval vessels and stealth targets. This latest advancement, showcased during the Euronaval show, represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the SM39, enhancing capabilities for modern naval warfare.
The SM40, part of the renowned Exocet missile family, boasts a range of groundbreaking features that set it apart. According to Pierre-Marie Bealleau, head of business development for deep strike missiles at MBDA, the missile integrates a cutting-edge J-Band radio-frequency seeker and innovative algorithms optimized for high-intensity combat scenarios. Notably, the SM40 has doubled its operational range, now reaching up to 120 kilometers thanks to a new turbojet engine, ensuring a critical stand-off distance in anti-submarine warfare.
"It is designed solely for Naval Group-made submarines, ensuring compatibility and streamlined customer options for global naval operators," Bealleau stated. The SM39, the preceding model, is already in service with multiple navies, including those of France and India.
In addition to its naval capabilities, the SM40 features a land attack function, enabling it to target ships in harbor environments, thereby expanding its tactical versatility. The missile utilizes a proven launch methodology involving a propelled and guided underwater vehicle, from which it is ejected after surfacing at a low altitude.
While production of the SM40 has yet to commence, MBDA representatives emphasize that the missile is built upon existing and mature technological foundations, suggesting that market readiness may come sooner than anticipated.
At the Euronaval exhibition, which runs from November 4-7, MBDA also commemorated a milestone anniversary by showcasing the Exocet MM40 B3C, celebrating the production of its 4,000th Exocet missile.
With its advanced design and expanded operational capabilities, the SM40 positions itself as a crucial asset for future naval defense strategies, reflecting MBDA’s commitment to staying at the forefront of defense innovation.
— Reported by Elisabeth Gosselin-Malo, Europe Correspondent for Defense News
