More new Aster Block 1 missiles due for Royal Navy this year

The UK Ministry of Defence says additional deliveries of new Aster Block 1 missiles will begin later in 2026, alongside upgrades to existing Royal Navy weapons through the Aster Mid-Life Refresh programme. The department reported substantial progress during the preceding year but withheld the number of missiles converted for security reasons. The missiles support Sea Viper Evolution Capability 1, the Type 45 destroyers' entry-level ballistic missile defence upgrade, which is expected to reach full operating capability in late 2032. The associated £405 million package was announced in 2024 and combines missile modernization with the wider shipborne air-defence enhancement.