The French Navy has successfully tested MBDA ‘s Exocet MM40 B3c missile from the frigate Alsace off the coast of the DGA EM of Ile du Levant.
Exocet MM40 B3c launch details
The event took place on September 20, 2023. The Exocet MM40 B3c represents the latest generation of anti-ship missiles in the Exocet family. Designed to be integrated into various platforms such as surface ships, submarines, and helicopters, previous variants of this missile are already in service of numerous global navies.
Eric Béranger, leader of MBDA, expressed his satisfaction with the test’s success and thanked both the DGA and the French Navy for their collaboration in this project.
Since its creation, the Exocet has been a benchmark in anti-ship missiles. The B3c version incorporates continuous improvements and features advanced search technology and algorithms developed to meet the modern challenges of maritime warfare.
History and evolution of the Exocet missile
The origin of Exocet dates back to 1967 when the Nord company began its development. Over time, business mergers led to the missile’s current design, which was inspired by the Nord AS-30 tactical air-to-ground missile.
MBDA has continued the evolution of the Exocet, allowing it to adapt to changing battle scenarios without losing its effectiveness in any weather conditions. The Exocet MM40 B3c is MBDA ‘s response to contemporary threats, especially in areas with high electronic warfare.
MBDA: Leader in weapons systems
MBDA stands out as a leading European conglomerate in weapons systems, with more than 14,000 employees and a presence in several European countries. Its mission is to support the sovereignty of nations such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom.
It is jointly owned by Airbus (37.5%), BAE Systems (37.5%) and Leonardo (25%). Although it is a pan-European entity, it has maintained national divisions since its founding. Over the years, it has incorporated assets from different companies, reaffirming itself as a benchmark in manufacturing precision weapons.
MBDA currently collaborates with more than 90 armed forces worldwide and maintains several subsidiaries, including one in the United States.
