Boeing’s Redesigned Harpoon Block IIU Missile Completes First Flight Test at Point Mugu

The U.S. Navy and Boeing have successfully completed the first developmental flight test of the Harpoon Block II Update (Block IIU) anti-ship missile, marking a major milestone for the program as it moves closer to production. The test, conducted at the Point Mugu Sea Range in California, showcased the missile’s upgraded propulsion, guidance, navigation, and control systems, along with its improved aerodynamic performance.

Boeing officials revealed that the Harpoon Block IIU represents a near-total redesign of the original missile, a move driven by obsolescence challenges and rising global demand for advanced anti-ship capabilities. The missile, first introduced in 1977, has been one of the world’s most widely deployed all-weather anti-ship systems, used in air, surface, submarine, and ground launch roles by dozens of navies and air forces.

The new Block IIU iteration builds upon the earlier Harpoon Block II, which incorporated technology from Boeing’s Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) and Standoff Land Attack Missile (SLAM) programs. Countries such as India, South Korea, Qatar, and Australia have already inducted Block II versions, while the upgraded Block IIU is set to refresh the system with modern hardware, software, and fuel components to enhance lethality and extend service life.

The recent test involved a drop from a Saudi F-15SA fighter jet, confirming the missile’s compatibility with advanced aircraft platforms. According to Joe Gentile, Boeing F-15 Test Engineer, the trial was a demonstration of effective collaboration:

“Completing this test was especially meaningful because all the teams involved — Cruise Missile Systems, F-15 and Boeing Test & Evaluation along with the Navy — were able to work together and accomplish a shared mission to help the U.S. and its allies.”

The Block IIU effort runs parallel with a Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) designed to sustain and modernize the Harpoon inventory. RTX has been contracted to support this upgrade as the exclusive supplier of Harpoon seekers, ensuring continuity in missile production.

Deliveries of the upgraded Block IIU Harpoon missiles are expected to begin in 2026, positioning the system to remain a frontline anti-ship weapon for the U.S. and allied forces well into the next decade.