Lockheed signs agreement to promote air-launched version of Norwegian design
Lockheed Martin and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace have signed a joint marketing agreement to promote an air-launched version of the Norwegian firm’s developmental Naval Strike Missile (NSM).
Kongsberg is studying adaptation of the NSM, which will enter series production for the Norwegian navy this year, to create a Joint Strike Missile suitable for carriage in the internal weapons bay of Lockheed’s F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). The effort will be jointly funded by the Australian and Norwegian governments, it says.
Planned changes to the NSM include the removal of its rocket booster, slight reductions to its body diameter and 400kg (880lb) launch weight, an increase in length and alterations to its wing to enable release from high altitude, says Harald Annestad, vice-president of Kongberg’s missiles and space group.
These are expected to significantly increase the design’s current maximum range, which Lockheed lists at over 240km (130nm).
Kongsberg says the modifications are expected to “take three years to reach the technological maturity required for the missile to be an option for deployment on the JSF”. Suitable for use against maritime and land targets, the new weapon will retain the NSM’s engine and imaging infrared seeker, Annestad says.
■ Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control has received US Air Force contracts worth $294 million to cover lot six and seven production of the AGM-158A JASSM cruise missile until March 2008. The awards will meet USAF requirements and potential new export sales during the life of the contract.
Lockheed is bidding JASSM for a Republic of Singapore Air Force requirement, and last year secured its first export order for the type from Australia.
Source: Flight International
