British navy unveils new Anti-Boat Swarm missile system

The Royal Navy has tested a new missile system to protect aircraft carriers from attacks by swarms of small enemy boats.

During the live-fire exercise, the missile reportedly detached from the Wildcat Mk2 helicopter in only 0.3 seconds. It then accelerated to one and a half times the speed of sound and struck a large floating target in the Pacific Ocean.

According to Air Wing Commander Capt. James Blackmore, the new missile system can provide the navy with both offensive and defensive capabilities against maritime targets that threaten the Carrier Strike Group.

The weapon system adds another layer of protection against enemy boats since a Wildcat helicopter can carry 20 laser-sensor missiles.