Spanish Navy Selects MBDA's SIMBAD RC to Fill VSHORAD Defense Gap

The Spanish Navy selected MBDA’s SIMBAD RC2 to fill a very-short-range air-defense gap aboard three ships. The initial contract covers four remote launchers: one for each of two Santa María-class frigates and a twin installation for the Juan Carlos I amphibious assault ship. Using infrared-guided Mistral 3 missiles, thermal optics and video tracking, the system can engage drones, aircraft and sea-skimming missiles at ranges beyond eight kilometers. SIMBAD RC2 may operate independently or connect to a ship’s combat system, improving reaction speed without requiring extensive crew exposure.