A faster radar-guided Sea Cat could have helped in the Falklands

Was it a mistake to abandon a proposed supersonic, radar-guided Sea Cat?

The upgrade could have improved close defence and been useful in the Falklands, although its value and export prospects would still trail the more capable lightweight Sea Wolf.

Supersonic speed and radar guidance would make Sea Cat more useful than the historical system, especially in the Falklands. The improvement could add another defensive option to ships already carrying the launcher. A major export market or long development future is unlikely. Lightweight Sea Wolf remains the more promising system and would deserve priority. The missed opportunity is therefore limited to a useful interim capability.