Sea Venom missiles were first used from an AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat helicopter

During the tests, the improved offensive capabilities of the Wildcat were confirmed, making it possible to hit surface targets the size of a corvette.

UK Ministry of Defense On October 9, 2024, it was reported that the Wildcat helicopter successfully conducted the first combat launches of the Sea Venom anti-ship missile. The test took place at the Aberport training ground in Wales. It reports Army Recognition.

Such a test serves to confirm the Wildcat's improved offensive capabilities, which enable it to engage surface targets the size of a corvette. This opportunity is designed to increase the firepower of the Royal Navy in preparation for future deployments of the aircraft carrier strike group, including and planned for 2025.

Sea Venom is equipped with an infrared head with a “fire-and-forget” function, which gives the missile the ability to autonomously pursue a target. In addition, a high-speed two-way data link allows operators to track and correct the missile's trajectory in flight and retarget it, refine aiming points or abort the mission if necessary.

Integration of Sea Venom on the Wildcat should complement other missile systems , such as Martlet. Wildcat helicopters have been in service with the British military since 2015, and among other things, they are assigned the role of protecting the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers.

200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000

Sea Venom missile vs Martlet missile

Both varieties — Sea Venom and Martlet missiles — integrated into the Royal Navy's AW159 Wildcat helicopters as part of the Future Anti-Surface Guided Weapon programme. Although both perform air-to-surface functions, they are required for different types of targets and operational needs.

Sea Venom Missiles

• Sea Venom — a larger and more powerful missile designed to hit medium and large military vessels such as patrol boats and corvettes;
• range — about 20 km;
• warhead weight — 30 kg, which is much more powerful than the Martlet;
• the missile is equipped with an infrared homing head and data link guidance.

Sea Venom has implemented several attack profiles, in particular modes of attack from above and gliding over the surface of the sea, which makes it versatile for different types of purposes and conditions.

In turn, the Martlet — a lightweight missile for fast and maneuverable engagement of small and weakly defended targets, such as fast attack boats or unmanned surface vessels.

Weighing only 13 kg with a 3 kg warhead, it can reach speeds of twice that sound Damage range — over 6 km.

The Martlet's compact size allows it to carry up to 20 missiles, providing significant firepower against swarm attacks from small boats. A laser beam guidance system is used for accurate target engagement, which is ideal for engaging small or more mobile targets at close range.