Sea Skua
Overview
This Air-to-Surface Missile uses a semi-active radar homing guidance
system and its first application was aboard the Lynx helicopter using
the Ferranti Seaspray radar illuminator. The Lynx can carry 4 Sea Skua
missiles and this fit was used to extend the range of weapons available
to helicopter-armed frigates.
The range of the Sea Skua also offers considerable ‘distance’ protection
for the launch aircraft, especially against ship launched
Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAM).
Once the launch aircraft crew has designated a target, the Sea Skua can
be treated as a fire-and-forget missile. After launch the missile swoops
down to 1 of 4 preselected sea-skimming heights. Near the target the
missile automatically climbs slightly for optimum lock-on for the homing
head.