Norway Fires First ESSM Block 2 From Nansen Frigate to Test Active Homing

Norway has completed its first live firing of the Evolved SeaSparrow Missile Block 2 from the Fridtjof Nansen-class frigate KNM Otto Sverdrup under Project P6192. Conducted off Andøya, the campaign combined simulated launches with live engagements against target drones to verify updated Aegis combat-system software, missile communications and expected interceptor performance. Data from the missile and shipboard combat system has been sent to the United States for detailed analysis, while preliminary results support introduction of the new capability. The Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency and Royal Norwegian Navy will next plan final installation and operational approval, replacing the Block 1 configuration now in service.