Boeing Tests Upgraded Harpoon Anti-Ship Missile

At the Naval Air Station Point Mugu in California, Boeing conducted the first flight tests of the updated Harpoon Block II Update anti-ship missile.

This was reported by Naval News.

According to Boeing representatives, the new Harpoon Block II Update (HIIU) has received modernization across nearly all systems to address obsolescence, as interest in the Harpoon continues to grow.

The latest Harpoon Block IIU is an iteration of the Harpoon Block II, which had previously incorporated an inertial system from high-precision JDAM bombs and guidance components and software from the SLAM-ER tactical missile.

The updated missile reportedly features ‘enhanced internal equipment’ to meet requirements for various system configurations and to support continued production. Specific details of the modifications and improvements were not disclosed.

The missile was tested from an F-15SA aircraft at the Naval Air Station Point Mugu. Boeing said the missile successfully met test objectives for propulsion, guidance, navigation, and control systems, while demonstrating the expected aerodynamic performance.

Delivery of the updated Harpoon Block IIU missiles is expected to begin in 2026.

In April 2023, Boeing received a contract for 400 RGM-84L-4 Harpoon Block II Update missiles, along with supporting equipment and services, valued at $629.7 million.

These missiles, in their land-based configuration, are scheduled for delivery to Taiwan, with the deal expected to be completed by March 2029.

Taiwan plans to receive a total of 100 Harpoon Coastal Defense System launchers, radar stations, and other supporting equipment.

Alongside Boeing’s missile modernization, the U.S. Navy Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is working with Raytheon to develop new seeker heads as part of the Service Life Extension Program (SLEP). Raytheon will provide the seeker heads and conduct modernization work as the sole designer, developer, and manufacturer.