Penguin (missile)

The Penguin is a Norwegian anti-ship missile developed by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. It is a short-to-medium range, passive radar homing missile designed for engaging enemy vessels in littoral waters.

The Penguin was one of the first anti-ship missiles to employ inertial guidance in its mid-course phase, coupled with a passive infrared (IR) seeker for terminal homing. This combination makes it highly resistant to electronic countermeasures. Its seeker is effective against a wide range of targets, including small, fast attack craft in cluttered environments.

Development of the Penguin began in the early 1960s, with the first production missiles delivered to the Royal Norwegian Navy in the early 1970s. Several variants have been developed since, adapted for different launch platforms, including naval vessels, helicopters, and aircraft. The missile has been widely exported and is in service with several countries.

Key features of the Penguin missile include its low-altitude sea-skimming flight profile, which makes it difficult to detect and intercept. Its high maneuverability during the terminal phase further enhances its survivability. The missile is designed to deliver a significant warhead to inflict substantial damage on targeted vessels. The Penguin is considered a highly effective weapon for naval warfare.