Can a naval helicopter guide surface-to-surface missiles?

Short answer

Yes, with a naming nuance: the SS.12/AS.12 is a surface-to-surface or air-to-surface missile, and in the anti-ship role it was used from naval helicopters and fighter aircraft or from ground-based launchers. Guidance is delivered via two wires unwound from rear-mounted spools.

Published: November 1, 2026 · Updated: November 1, 2026 · Edited by Above Ten Thousand · Editorial policy

Can a naval helicopter guide surface-to-surface missiles?

Wasp HAS 1 on USS Springfield (CLG-7) 1968

A family with two roles

The SS.12/AS.12 is described as a surface-to-surface or air-to-surface missile. In the anti-ship role it was launched from naval helicopters and fighter aircraft, or from ground-based launchers. The AS.12 entered service with the French Navy in 1960, in the air-to-surface role against ships and surfaced submarines.

Wire guidance

Command signals reach the missile via two wires unwound from two spools at its rear. The missile steers its trajectory by means of four metal vanes arranged around the sustainer motor's exhaust nozzle, in a thrust-vectoring system that deflects the engine jet.

Shipborne armament and combat

The Italian Navy's AB 212 armament list includes a 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine gun and Mk-46 torpedoes for the anti-submarine mission. The AS.12 saw combat on both sides. It was fired from Westland Wasp helicopters against the Argentine submarine ARA Santa Fe. Of the missiles launched, four hit, four missed and one failed to fire.