Brazilian Navy Conducts First MANSUP Launch from Greenhalgh-Class Frigate

The Brazilian Navy launched the MANSUP (Míssil Antinavio Nacional de Superfície) anti-ship missile from the Greenhalgh-class frigate F Rademaker (F49) for the first time on September 13.

This launch was part of ongoing efforts to develop a surface-to-surface missile that will equip future naval vessels.

According to reports, the test took place during Operation "Weapons Launch IV/2024," conducted between September 11 and 15. The missile launch was a key element of various live-fire tests carried out by the Brazilian Navy to evaluate missile performance and operational readiness. The frigate F Rademaker, a Type 22 vessel, launched the MANSUP at a designated target after departing from the Naval Base of Rio de Janeiro.

The MANSUP has been previously launched from Niterói-class frigates and the corvette Cv Barroso (V34), but this was the first time it had been launched from a Greenhalgh-class frigate. The Navy indicated that this test was necessary to meet service missile qualification requirements.

The MANSUP is being developed under the Esporão program by the Brazilian Navy's Weapon Systems Directorate, in collaboration with domestic partners Fundação Ezute, Avibras, SIATT, and Omnisys. It is a sea-skimming, fire-and-forget missile capable of operating in all weather conditions.

The Brazilian Navy has been testing MANSUP missiles since 2018, with three prototypes launched between 2018 and 2019 and a further four missiles launched from a pilot batch since 2022. The missile is expected to complete development by late 2025, when it will be integrated into the new Tamandaré-class frigates. Each Tamandaré-class frigate will be equipped with two MBDA ITL 70A B3 launchers for the MANSUP, enhancing the Navy's anti-ship capabilities.