A Royal Navy Wildcat successfully shot down a Banshee target drone using the Martlet missile in an air-to-air role test conducted in South West Wales. This marks a significant advancement in the Royal Navy’s air defense capabilities, particularly against small air targets like kamikaze drones. The Martlet missile, originally designed for surface targets, has proven its versatility in the air-to-air role. This test further solidifies the Wildcat helicopter’s role in fleet defense, offering much-needed protection against drones. Both the Martlet missile and the Banshee drone have been used in Ukraine, showcasing the efficacy and commitment of the UK in supporting Ukraine’s defense.
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In a groundbreaking display of military prowess, a Royal Navy Wildcat helicopter from the 815 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) successfully shot down a Banshee target drone using the Martlet missile in an air-to-air role. The test, which took place at the Manorbier range in South West Wales, showcased the independent capabilities of the Wildcat in acquiring and tracking the target drone before launching a Martlet missile to destroy it.
Commander James Woods, officer commanding 815 NAS, hailed the test as a significant advancement in maritime strike capability for the Royal Navy, providing a much-needed layer of anti-drone protection to the fleet. Lieutenant Dave Guest, the pilot of the Wildcat, praised the Martlet missile as a highly-capable and cost-effective weapon ideal for such scenarios.
The Martlet missile, originally designed for targeting light surface vessels, has proven its versatility in the air-to-air role. With a laser beam-riding guidance system that cannot be jammed, the Martlet is capable of carrying a 3kg warhead and flying at a maximum speed of Mach 1.5 with a range of 8 km, making it a formidable asset in defending against airborne threats.
Furthermore, the Banshee target drone, used in the test, serves as a simulation target to test reaction times and responses by Royal Navy crews in encountering various threats. The Banshee has also seen use in Ukraine, where it is used as a kamikaze drone and an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platform, showcasing its versatility in combat situations.
The successful integration of the Martlet missile and the Wildcat helicopter highlights the Royal Navy’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve in military technology. With the capability to engage small air targets like kamikaze drones, the Martlet missile provides a valuable asset to the Royal Navy’s defense arsenal. As the Navy continues to enhance its capabilities, the successful test firing marks a significant milestone in British military research and development.