Guided missiles

Guided missiles replaced traditional naval artillery as the primary means of engaging targets at long range. These weapons could be directed toward ships, aircraft, or land targets with high precision. Missile systems such as Sea Dart and Sea Wolf provided effective air defence for Royal Navy vessels.

The introduction of guided missiles changed naval combat dynamics. Engagement ranges increased, and reaction times decreased. Ships became platforms for integrated weapon systems, combining sensors, fire control, and missile launchers. Missile technology remains central to modern naval warfare.