The Australian Defence Force has contracted Kongsberg Defence Australia to deliver the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) as part of an effort to increase Australia’s guided weapons and explosives ordnance stocks.
NSM will be leveraged by the Hobart-class destroyers and Anzac-class frigates, replacing the aging Harpoon anti-ship missile beginning in 2024.
The new missile is equipped with cutting-edge technology to deliver a powerful maritime strike capability.
In addition to NSM, ADF is also acquiring the land-based long-range, surface-to-surface High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), which includes launchers, missiles, and training rockets.
HIMARS munitions have a range of up to 300 km, which is expected to increase as technology advances.
Additionally, the system features a weapon-locating radar to detect and respond to land, air, and maritime threats. The radar is being delivered by Australian company CEA.
The HIMARS system will be rolled out into service by 2026 to 2027, providing the Australian Army with a significant capability boost, ADF said in a media statement.
NSM and HIMARS launchers will provide ADF with the ability to deter conflict and protect Australia’s interests, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles.
“The Naval Strike Missile is a major step up in capability for our Navy’s warships, while HIMARS launchers have been successfully deployed by the Ukrainian military over recent months and are a substantial new capability for the Army,” Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said.
The acquisitions have a combined value of more than $1 billion.
