Harpoon boon

AIR Force strike platforms are to receive a significant anti-shipping boost with the retrofitting of Block II technology to Air Force and Navy Harpoon I anti-ship missiles (ASMs).

F-111, F/A-18 and AP-3C aircraft carry Harpoon ASMs.

Defence Minister Robert Hill said the cost of the new technology was $30 million and it would enhance the missile’s precision and lethality.

The improved missile will target ships close to shore or in congested waterways more effectively.

The upgraded navigational and initialisation information technology allows the missile’s active radar seeker to better discriminate the target from islands, other obstructions or neutral ships.

The Anzac class frigates will be the first platforms to be fitted with the upgraded missiles.

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