The growing size, range, and striking power of the Soviet surface fleet prompted missiles to be spread across several platform types. Royal Navy attack submarines would receive Sub-Harpoon, with HMS Courageous identified as the first planned fit in 1982. More Leander-class frigates would carry Exocet, while Lynx helicopters would bring Sea Skua into service. Sea Harriers, RAF Buccaneers, and Tornados were intended to carry Sea Eagle from the mid-1980s. Submarines, surface ships, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft would therefore provide complementary ways to attack surface targets.
Chapter · 5:26-6:16
Distributed anti-ship weapons across the fleet
Sub-Harpoon, Exocet, Sea Skua, and Sea Eagle would distribute anti-ship striking power among submarines, frigates, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft.