Advanced new naval anti-air missiles to arrive later this year

Britain expects deliveries of new Aster Block 1 missiles to begin later in 2026 while existing Royal Navy stocks are being upgraded through the Aster Mid-Life Refresh programme. Defence Minister Luke Pollard told Parliament that considerable progress had been made over the preceding twelve months but withheld converted missile quantities on security grounds. The work supports Sea Viper Evolution Capability 1 for the Type 45 destroyers' air-defence system, improving capability against ballistic missiles alongside aircraft and cruise-missile threats. The update confirms continued refurbishment and planned new deliveries rather than completion of the fleet's entire missile upgrade.