The missile, introduced to service seven years ago but never tested, was fired from a navy Seasprite helicopter in a joint operation with the air force.

The Seasprite flew from the deck of the frigate Te Kaha and was accompanied by another helicopter. An air force Orion flew overhead to make sure the area was clear and film the test.

Commander Jason Haggitt, who was in the second "chase" Seasprite, said the many people involved had been preparing for several months and "everybody was very focused given it was a rare occurrence and it was important to get it right".