Changes in the operational environment, increases in target capability and the inevitable advance in technology have led to the requirement for a modern, capable anti-surface weapon as part of the Maritime Contribution to Joint Operations in the littoral.

The Future Anti-Surface Guided Weapon (FASGW) is intended to meet this requirement and hence ensure the Royal Navy maintains its Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) attack capability well into the next century.

FASGW will provide the most cost-effective ASuW delivery system to meet the perceived threat of Fast Attack Craft (FAC) and to help establish Sea Control/Sea Denial within the area of operations (including the littoral). FASGW is focussed on Corvette sized (and smaller) targets (including missile firing FACs), and on coastal "soft" land targets.

To date, a number of research studies have been conducted in support of the FASGW concept, as well as some operational analysis. Industry has also carried out some private venture funded pre-feasibility studies. However, the exact nature of the system formally remains open until Concept Phase is completed at Initial Gate.


General characteristics / technical performance

The leading contender for FASGW is a Guided Missile launched from an air platform. A study into anti-ship capabilities has concluded that helicopters are the most cost-effective Anti-Surface Weapon platforms to meet the proposed threat, particularly in areas of high background, non-hostile shipping density and where stringent Rules of Engagement provide an additional challenge. Until Initial Gate is approved, other options will also be assessed on a continuing basis.

Milestones

Major Milestones achieved:

Approval to raise User Requirement Document (Sea) 6625 - April 1999
Quantities: Numbers will depend on the technical solution.

Commercial Aspects

MoD will involve industry in Requirements Capture, and other studies including viability of a range of options. Competition will be maintained until placement of the main procurement contract. At that stage, it is anticipated that the preferred procurement option will be an off-the-shelf solution if suitable candidates are available.

International Collaboration

Consideration will be given during the programme to international collaboration on ASuW capabilities, solutions and missile system requirements where that could prove effective.

Public / Private Partnerships

Consideration will be given during the programme to such arrangements where they could prove effective (such as for training facilities).

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