Missile Masurca

In 1948, France initiated programs to develop guided missile systems to counter high-speed aerial threats. The Masurca emerged from these efforts as a high-priority area defense system. It drew upon experience gained from the earlier Maruca program, which was derived from wartime German missile technology. Development of a supersonic, solid-propellant design began in 1955. Testing took place between 1960 and 1968 at Île du Levant and Ile d'Oléron, concluding with operational validation aboard the frigate Suffren. Subsequent versions integrated technology and data shared from United States missile programs, specifically the RIM-2 Terrier and RIM-24 Tartar.

The Masurca is a two-stage surface-to-air missile consisting of a solid rocket booster and a sustainer motor. The booster stage accelerates the airframe before separating via pyrotechnic fasteners, after which the terminal guidance system initiates. The missile utilizes a high explosive blast-fragmentation warhead equipped with a proximity fuze. This configuration was intended to ensure target destruction via blast effects in the event of a near-miss.

Guidance systems evolved through several variants. The initial operational version, the Mark 2 Mod 2, functioned as a command-guided missile using radio control. The final service variant, the Mark 2 Mod 3, utilized semi-active radar homing with an internal continuous-wave radar receiver. This version homed in on radar energy reflected from the target by the launch ship's illumination radars. The shipboard system included tracking radars and illuminators, allowing the parent vessel to engage multiple targets simultaneously.

The system was operated exclusively by the French Navy, serving as a medium-range area defense weapon for carrier battle groups. Due to the weight and complexity of the shipboard installation, deployment was limited to the Suffren-class frigates and the cruiser Colbert. The Masurca entered service in 1968 and remained operational until 2009. During its service life, the system was deployed in support of various operations, including missions in Lebanon, the Gulf War, and Opération Balbuzard during the Siege of Sarajevo. Despite these deployments, the missile was never fired in combat. It was replaced in service by the Aster 30 missile.