Royal Navy Successfully Tests New Ship-Busting Naval Strike Missile
The Royal Navy has successfully tested its new Naval Strike Missile (NSM), a powerful weapon capable of engaging enemy warships at ranges exceeding 100 miles. The test took place at the Norwegian Arctic rocket range in Andøya during exercise Aegir 25.
The Aegir 25 Exercise and the NSM Launch
The drill, named Aegir 25, was conducted alongside NATO allies from Norway and Poland, marking the inaugural launch of the new missile from a British warship. The frigate HMS Somerset conducted the test.
The 400kg NSM represents a significant upgrade from the existing Harpoon missile system currently used by the Royal Navy's Type 23 frigates and Type 45 destroyers. Its superior range and advanced targeting capabilities allow it to strike both naval and land-based targets.
Ministerial Statements and Strategic Importance
Luke Pollard, the Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, emphasized the importance of the new weapon. “The Naval Strike Missile is one of the most advanced missiles in our naval arsenal. It will give the Royal Navy and our allies an edge against our enemies."
“This milestone, achieved through our exemplary international partnership with Norway, significantly enhances our maritime deterrent and underscores the Government’s dedication to investing in the technologies that will maintain Britain’s security.” - Luke Pollard
NSM Technical Details and Deployment
The Naval Strike Missile (NSM) is designed to fly close to sea level at near-supersonic speeds, making it difficult for radar to detect. It is already in service with the Norwegian, United States, and Polish navies and is now being rolled out across the Royal Navy.
HMS Somerset, recently tasked with monitoring the Russian undersea reconnaissance ship Yantar, is the first British warship to fire the NSM. Additionally, HMS Richmond and HMS Portland have also been fitted with the new missile system.
Crew Praised for Successful Test
Commander Matt Millyard, the commanding officer of HMS Somerset, commended his crew for their hard work and dedication. "I am very proud of the team following the successful first-of-class firing of the Naval Strike Missile."
“This is not something that comes together easily and has involved an incredible amount of work by the crew and staff from across the defence enterprise. The professionalism and teamwork demonstrated by all throughout the planning and execution has been exemplary”. - Commander Matt Millyard
Collaboration and Future Plans
The test required months of preparation, with support from engineers at Kongsberg, the Norwegian defence company that manufactures the missile. Commander Matthew Cox, the UK’s NSM programme director, highlighted the strong partnership between the UK and Norway.
The NSM will complement the Royal Navy’s future cruise and anti-ship weapon, a larger missile intended for next-generation warships such as the Type 26 and Type 31 frigates. These systems are designed to restore long-range strike capability to the Fleet.
