Harpoon missile truck7/12/2023 ![]() ![]() The missile is deployed from submarines and surface ships such as fast patrol boats, destroyers and frigates. The multi-mission Block II can be launched from all Harpoon missile launch systems equipped with existing command and launch systems or the Advanced Harpoon Weapon Control System (AHWCS). The propulsion system provides high subsonic speed and range of 124km. The missile is propelled by a Teledyne Turbojet engine / solid propellant booster providing a thrust of over 600lb (272.2kg). The advanced features of Block II provide high hit probability against warships near to shore or travelling in narrow sea routes. The accurate navigation combined with improved launch system provides better discrimination of target vessels from islands and nearby land zones or other ships. The GPS/INS decimates midcourse guidance faults on the way to the target area while performing conventional anti-ship missions, including open-sea and near-land. The GCU can also be incorporated with a data link for network-centric operation. The guidance control unit (GCU) of Harpoon Block II integrates a selective availability anti-spoofing module (SAASM) GPS receiver. It also uses a software package, mission computer, integrated GPS/INS, and GPS antenna and receiver from the AGM-84H Standoff Land Attack Missile Expanded Response (SLAM-ER). Harpoon Block II integrates the low-cost inertial measuring unit from the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) programme. The missile employs GPS-aided inertial navigation system (INS) to strike targets on land and ships stationed in port. The diameter of the missile is 34.3cm, while its weight varies between 526kg and 690.8kg based on the launch configuration. The projected timetable for Land Project 4100 Phase 2 initiation remains unclear, however, it is evident that minimizing risk is a primary consideration.The ship-launched Harpoon Block II has a length of 4.62m, while the length of the air-launched missile is 3.84m. ![]() initially but which could be used from other platforms. It is derived from the AGM-158 in development for F/A-18 aircraft and has been ordered by the RAAF for 2026 introduction. Lockheed-Martin is proposing its AGM-184C Long Range Anti-Ship Missile – Surface Launched (LRASM-SL) which it suggests launching from the HIMARS. An air-launched NSM version is also being considered by the RAAF for its F-35A Lighting II. The missile has a range of over 185 km and is compatible for both ground and ship launch. The NSM is in service with nine countries including the US, Japan, Malaysia, and Canada. In fact, Kongsberg indicates that the Launch Mission Module being used shipboard is adaptable to StrikeMaster. StrikeMasterĪ factor that supports the StrikeMaster offer is the July 2022 announcement by the Royal Australian Navy of its selection of the NSM to replace the Harpoon anti-ship missile on its surface combatants with fielding in 2024. The system which has two containerized launchers would be domestically produced in country. The team unveiled a demonstrator of the StrikeMaster at the Land Forces 2022 exhibition in Brisbane in early October. The system combines the proven and in Army service Bushmaster protected 4 X 4 vehicle with the Kongsberg Naval Strike Missile (NSM). The companies have jointed to independently develop the StrikeMaster. The objective is to find a “low-risk” supportable solution.Ī local in-county team of Thales Australia and Kongsberg are attempting to establish a favorable position for their candidate early on. The government has programed around $500 million for the acquisition. Although a formal tender process has not yet been initiated some companies have potential solutions and could have interest. ![]()
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