It carries a 165 kg (363 lb) delay-fused warhead, designed for 90mm of penetration prior to detonation.

The missile was originally designed for anti-shipping roles in coastal waters, although it retains a secondary land-attack capability as well.

Development was started in 1983, with first flight and firing trials taking place in early 1986.

The missile features an improved warhead, all-digital electronics, improved active radar seeker, increased ECM-resistance, a stronger booster rocket, a longer range, improved automated target selection, multiple launch capability, and an increased resistance to countermeasures.

Testing ended in 1987, and the missile entered service with the German Navy in 1991.