The Australian Army conducted its first live fire of the National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS) at the Woomera test range in South Australia on 14 November.
The new capability comprises an integrated system between a Kongsberg launch platform, a Raytheon AIM-120 AMRAAM missile and the highly capable radar from CEA Technologies. It will replace current legacy RBS-70 man-portable air-defence systems.
“Land Systems Division’s collaboration with Raytheon Australia, Kongsberg and CEA Technologies is testament to the knowledge, skill and commitment of all teams to deliver this highly complex capability,” said Head of Army’s Land Systems Division, Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Major General Andrew Bottrell.
NASAMS will be operated by 16th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, based in Woodside, South Australia. The project will also deliver 16th Regiment new facilities at Edinburgh Defence Precinct, with relocation scheduled for late 2025.
“The firing of this world class capability is a significant milestone for the modernisation of Army supported by defence industry partners,” said Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart.
“NASAMS will enable Army to be interoperable with the wider ADF and coalition militaries to provide integrated air and missile defence.