Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:29:53-2:33:23

Why the Royal Navy did not adopt Brimstone

Brimstone is capable, but Martlet and other weapons better matched Royal Navy platforms and missions while F-35 integration remained unavailable.

Brimstone MissileMartlet MissileNaval AviationRoyal NavySea SpearWeapons Integration
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Question

Why did the Royal Navy not adopt MBDA Brimstone?

Short answer

Other selected weapons better matched Royal Navy requirements, while Brimstone was not integrated on the F-35.

Notes

Brimstone's suitability depends on the target and launch platform the Royal Navy needs to equip. Martlet already covers a relevant helicopter role, while Brimstone's RAF fixed-wing integration did not make it available for the F-35. Sea Spear work examined a maritime use against small-boat swarms, and other potential applications remained under discussion. Launch conditions also change range, with fixed-wing release offering more reach than rotary-wing or surface launch. The explanation for non-adoption is that other selected weapons fitted the Navy's requirements, despite Brimstone's acknowledged capability.