The Royal Navy missile test marked a major breakthrough this week as HMS Dragon successfully destroyed a supersonic missile. The test took place off the coast of Scotland as part of the NATO-led Exercise Formidable Shield 2025.
HMS Dragon, a Type 45 destroyer, used the Sea Viper missile system to intercept and destroy a high-speed target. The missile flew at over four times the speed of sound and performed complex evasive maneuvers such as corkscrews and weaves. Despite the difficulty, the missile was tracked and obliterated mid-air.
The Royal Navy missile test used a telemetry version of the Sea Viper. This allowed experts to collect vital data to improve future operations. The trial was part of Europe’s largest live-firing naval exercise.
Commander Iain Giffin, the ship’s commanding officer, praised the success. He said it confirmed HMS Dragon’s readiness and ability to defend against evolving threats. He also noted the importance of working closely with NATO allies during the exercise.
The Sampson radar system, located on the mast of the destroyer, played a crucial role. It scanned vast areas of airspace to detect threats. Once locked, the Aster missile launched from the ship’s forecastle and destroyed the target.
Lieutenant Commander Sarah Kaese, on exchange from the Royal Australian Navy, praised the crew’s rapid progress. She highlighted the ship’s operational strength and its ability to perform in high-pressure scenarios.
Exercise Formidable Shield involves 11 allied nations. Together, they are testing advanced missile systems against a mix of aerial and surface threats. The drill also includes uncrewed aircraft, drone swarms, and ballistic targets.
This Royal Navy missile test is a milestone for British naval defence. It demonstrates the effectiveness of the Sea Viper system and confirms the UK’s leading role in NATO’s air defence strategy.
The exercise will continue through the end of the month.
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