Boeing’s Redesigned Harpoon Soars During Test Mission 

Launching from an F-15 jet, updated cruise missile completes initial flight test, delivers key data as production nears. 

From Boeing by By Josh Roth and Junu Kim, July 23, 2025 

Boeing recently completed the first developmental flight-test mission of its redesigned Harpoon cruise missile, the Harpoon Block II Update (HIIU). 

Why it matters: As the program nears the start of production, the mission provided Cruise Missile Systems (CMS) teammates and the U.S. Navy with telemetry data to assess the system’s performance and progress ahead of follow-on flight tests. 

Catch up quick: Boeing’s Harpoon is the most widely used, combat-proven cruise missile system in the world, able to launch from aircraft, land launch systems, surface ships and submarines. 

The HIIU configuration builds upon the program’s 50-plus year legacy by addressing obsolescence items and preparing the Harpoon program to extend production amid a resurgence in global demand. 

Zoom in: The HIIU was carried by an F-15SA flight-test aircraft out of Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, California, and launched in the Point Mugu Sea Range off the Southern California coast. 

Following release, the anti-ship missile successfully achieved the test objectives for the propulsion, guidance, navigation and control systems, and demonstrated desired aerodynamic performance.   

What they’re saying: 

Brian Schottel, HIIU program manager: “This is a significant achievement for our program and Navy counterparts, whose collaborative efforts have been essential in renewing this capability for operators.” 

Joe Gentile, F-15 test engineer: “Completing this test was especially meaningful because all the teams involved — CMS, F-15 and Boeing Test & Evaluation (BT&E) along with the Navy — were able to work together and accomplish a shared mission to help the U.S. and its allies.” 

The big picture: The U.S. Navy and over 30 customers worldwide use the Harpoon in support of anti-ship and land-strike missions. 

What’s next: Following flight-test completion, teammates will begin production on the HIIU, with first deliveries planned for 2026.