► MBDA and Terma join forces to develop innovative, flexible air and surface defence solutions against a wide spectrum of threats

MBDA and Terma, building on their longstanding partnership and in the framework of the cooperation agreement signed during Eurosatory last June, have announced the development of the Self Protection Integrated Mistral 3 Module (SPIMM), an innovative, containerised air and surface defence solution, deployable at sea and on land.

Recent global conflicts and operational deployments at sea have underscored that a robust and efficient protection capability is mandatory to keep the sovereignty and security of sea merchant routes all over the world and a strong protection of naval operations within littoral areas. As the diversity and complexity of air and surface threats, such as air and surface drones or cruise missiles, continue to evolve, the need for a rapidly deployable and modular defence systems has become critical for all sea operations, and increasing for coastal assets and installations.

The SPIMM project addresses this urgency by providing a comprehensive ‘all-in-one’ defence capability. The system containerises MBDA’s SIMBAD-RC4 weapon system based on its combat proven MISTRAL 3 missile, integrating it with advanced threat detection sensors and a dedicated Combat Management System (CMS). The system is orchestrated by an advanced Terma’s C2 system, inherited from the C-FLEX, which brings sensor and track data into one clear tactical picture, helping a limited crews understand the situation, make timely decisions, and orchestrate an effective response, with less reliance on the host platform’s own systems.

Designed for maximum flexibility, the SPIMM is a ‘Plug and Play’ solution housed within a standard ISO container. Requiring only a power supply, the system can be rapidly deployed on vessels without pre-existing combat systems, and, being containerised, can be moved between vessels and land-based sites as operational needs change.

Jean-Brice Dumont, CEO of MBDA, said: “European cooperation continues to be at the heart of MBDA’s DNA. This exciting new step with TERMA, developed in the framework of our industrial cooperation initiative in Denmark, shows our shared commitment to deliver a more agile approach to force protection in order to address rapidly evolving threats. With SPIMM, we are leveraging the unparalleled efficiency and versatility of the MISTRAL 3 missile and delivering a modular version that can be deployed almost anywhere. Together with TERMA, we aim to increase the survivability of our customers’ assets, regardless of their platform’s original design.”

Terma’s Chief Executive Officer, Henriette Hallberg Thygesen, commented: “At a time when security in Europe and beyond is under growing pressure, our customers need partners who can deliver capability quickly and with confidence. Our collaboration with MBDA reflects a shared conviction that the strongest defence solutions are built through trusted partnerships and a close understanding of operational needs. Together, we are strengthening the protection of those who serve and the assets they depend on.”

Beyond naval vessels, the modular nature of SPIMM allows for versatile deployment in diverse environments. The system is designed for installation on offshore assets, such as oil and gas platforms, as well as littoral and land-based positions to protect ports, critical naval bases and industrial sites.

Leveraging the multi-mission capabilities of the MISTRAL 3, SPIMM will provide comprehensive protection against a wide spectrum of threats, including, cruise missiles, UAVs, aircraft and helicopters as well as surface threats such as Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs), RHIBs, Fast Inshore Attack Craft (FIACs), and one way attack boats.