Ruta Cruise Missile Manufacturer Tests Hornet Interceptor Drone From Spanish Frigate Santa María

The Spanish Navy has tested the Hornet Block 1 interceptor drone launcher from the frigate Santa María.

Naval News reported on this.

The launch took place on June 18, 2026, as part of a joint demonstration with Destinus to evaluate the capabilities of containerized deployment of the system for shipborne air defense.

During the tests, one interceptor drone was launched from a containerized launch unit installed on the frigate’s helicopter deck.

The main focus of the demonstration was the system’s ability to operate in a maritime environment and counter subsonic aerial threats.

The container launch concept uses standard transport containers as launch modules, which can be placed on the deck or integrated into existing ship configurations.

This approach is considered a way to increase interceptor ammunition capacity on surface combatants without installing additional vertical launch systems.

At the same time, development is underway on the next modification of the system, Hornet Block 2. According to the developers, it will have a dual role: intercepting subsonic aerial targets and conducting precision strikes against sea and ground targets.

Hornet Block 1

The drone was developed by Destinus, which is also known for producing Ruta cruise missiles. The interceptor has a range of more than 75 kilometers and carries a 1.5-kilogram warhead.

Launch from the container is achieved using a solid-rocket booster.

Once the required flight profile is reached, the main propulsion system is activated.

Guidance can be provided via external target designation from a radar station or through an integrated infrared seeker equipped with artificial intelligence algorithms.

Thanks to its autonomous guidance system, the interceptor can operate effectively in environments with active electronic countermeasures.