This is the moment the Royal Navy tests the Sea Ceptor missile system that is planned to be installed on six Type 45 destroyers.

The six destroyers to receive the new missile system are the HMS Daring, Dauntless, Dragon, Diamond, Defender and Duncan in a GBP-500-million deal.

The Royal Navy shared footage of the Sea Ceptor missile system being fired from its silo on the frigate HMS Montrose.

The Navy said in a statement: “All six Type 45 destroyers – HMS Daring, Dauntless, Dragon, Diamond, Defender and Duncan – will receive the Sea Ceptor missile system in a GBP 500m deal.

“The weapon – fitted across the Type 23 frigate flotilla – bolsters the destroyers’ ability to deal with medium-range air and missile attacks, and destroy fast-moving attack boats.”

The Royal Navy added: “As part of the contract the Portsmouth-based ships will also receive an upgrade to their Sea Viper missile system.”

As well as the destroyers, Sea Ceptor is already in service with all 13 Type 23 frigates and will be installed in their successor class currently under construction, the Type 26 and 31 classes.

The first Sea Ceptor-enhanced Type 45 is expected to be delivered by summer 2026 with the entire flotilla completed by winter 2032.