The Developmental Test-1, or DT-1, was conducted at the Point Mugu Sea Range after two days of intensive testing in late July. The effort involved teams from the Precision Strike Weapons program office, designated PMX-201, the Naval Air Weapons Station Technical Project Office, Point Mugu Sea Range and Boeing.
During the test, the Harpoon missile was successfully launched from land and engaged the designated target vessel. The Harpoon Coastal Defense System is intended to provide a land-based anti-ship capability while using the established Harpoon missile to protect vital coastal assets and strategic waterways.
“The flawless execution of this test is a direct testament to the unparalleled expertise and relentless dedication demonstrated by the entire team,” said Capt. Sarah Abbott, PMX-201 program manager. “In the face of complex technical requirements and tight schedules, the team’s cohesive effort and proactive problem-solving ensured that every critical parameter was met.”
The test represents the first phase of a two-stage developmental testing process designed to assess the system’s combat readiness and effectiveness. That process includes at-sea, live-fire and tracking events intended to evaluate the capability and determine whether the latest weapon-system enhancements are ready for naval service.
The Navy team will now prepare for the second phase of developmental testing. The Department of the Navy did not provide further details on the timing or scope of that phase in the release.
“This represents a significant milestone in our mission to deliver a vital, high-priority defense capability to the field,” Abbott said. “An achievement of this scale is never the result of a single individual, it is the culmination of shared vision, rigorous discipline, and exhaustive preparation by everyone involved.”
The successful engagement advances the Navy’s effort to validate a shore-based system capable of striking maritime targets from land. By combining a coastal launcher with the Harpoon missile, the system is designed to provide an additional means of defending strategically important coastal areas and waterways.
The program is managed within the Department of the Navy’s broader munitions and strike enterprise. Portfolio Acquisition Executive Munitions is responsible for the development, procurement and delivery of naval munitions and strike capabilities.
