Hans G. Schantz (@aetherczar)

🇺🇸 Naval Modular Missile concept: unifying modular surface-to-air missiles for use from Mk 41 VLS cells to counter massed combined attacks by kamikaze UAVs and anti-ship missiles The US Navy has initiated development of the Naval Modular Missile (NMM) family, intended to radically reshape the architecture of shipborne air and missile defence. The concept is based on a standardised 250 mm interceptor built around a modular design. The missile includes standardised guidance, warhead, control-system and propulsion sections. This architecture allows the weapon to be adapted for a wide range of missions, from intercepting aerodynamic targets to engaging ballistic and manoeuvring hypersonic threats. Particular attention is being paid to increasing ammunition density within Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) cells. Three NMM variants are being developed for surface combatants: the long-range version occupies a full cell, while optimised variants allow two or four missiles to be packed into a single cell. This provides a several-fold increase in the firepower available to an individual warship. In addition, one NMM variant is being adapted for launch from torpedo tubes or vertical launch tubes aboard Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarines. The NMM programme is intended to replace a number of existing surface-to-air missile types, simplifying logistics and reducing operating costs. Planned production is expected to reach 1,000 missiles per year within five years of the start of a full-scale production contract. The introduction of NMM would allow the US Navy to build a layered defensive system capable of countering modern aerial threats, including future hypersonic weapons, while benefiting from the high flexibility of a modular missile platform. #info #USA #Navy #SAM