Land- and Sea-Launched Missile Supports Corps Modernisation Efforts
Raytheon announced on 7 May that it is to provide the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) to the US Marine Corps (USMAC) under a $47.59 million (€42.46 million) Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreement.
NSM is a long-range, precision strike missile that can detect and destroy heavily defended land and maritime targets at long ranges. In 2018, the US Navy awarded Raytheon a contract to manufacture and deliver NSM as the Navy’s over-the-horizon weapon system for littoral combat ships and future frigates. The Marine Corps’ selection of the Navy’s anti-ship missile enhances joint interoperability and reduces costs and logistical burdens.
The missile is the latest product produced in partnership with Norway and its leading defence systems developer, Kongsberg. A mobile, land-based NSM is already deployed with Poland’s coastal defence forces.
“This fifth-generation missile adds another dimension for sea control operations and for protection from adversary warships,” commented Vice President of Raytheon Air Warfare Systems, Kim Ernzen.
