Missile RIM-7 Sea Sparrow

The RIM-7 Sea Sparrow originated in the early 1960s as a derivative of the AIM-7 Sparrow air-to-air missile. It was developed to provide a point-defense system for naval vessels to counter high-speed aircraft and sea-skimming anti-ship missiles. The system was adopted following the cancellation of the RIM-46 Sea Mauler program. Initial versions utilized manual radar illumination, while subsequent iterations introduced automated fire control and folding wings for storage in compact launchers.

The missile utilizes semi-active radar homing for terminal guidance. Early variants relied on continuous wave signals, while the RIM-7M introduced a monopulse radar seeker and a computerized guidance system with an autopilot to maintain trajectory during brief signal loss. The RIM-7P variant incorporates rear-mounted antennas for mid-course updates, enabling secondary use against surface targets. Propulsion is provided by a solid-propellant rocket motor. The missile is equipped with an annular blast fragmentation warhead featuring an expanding rod and proximity fuzing. Launch configurations include trainable box launchers and vertical launching systems. Vertical-launch versions utilize a Jet Vane Control package to orient the missile toward the target after egress.

The Sea Sparrow is widely deployed across NATO maritime forces and has been exported to several countries in Europe, Asia, and South America. It is utilized on aircraft carriers, destroyers, and frigates. In 2023, the system was transferred to Ukraine and integrated into modified Soviet-era Buk-M1 launchers. This configuration, referred to as "FrankenSAM," was first used in combat in January 2024 to intercept a Shahed drone. Taiwan operates a ground-based version as part of the Skyguard air defense system; these units were temporarily withdrawn from service in 2012 following failures during test exercises. Former operators include Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.