The Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System, or NASAMS for short, is a highly advanced air defense system designed to protect high-value assets such as cities, military bases, and critical infrastructure from air threats. Developed jointly by the Norwegian company Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and the American defense contractor Raytheon, the system has been in service with the Norwegian armed forces since the late 1990s and has since been exported to several other countries, including the United States.
The NASAMS system comprises a number of key components, including a fire control center, radar systems, and launchers that are capable of firing a range of air defense missiles. The system is designed to work in conjunction with other air defense systems and can be easily integrated with existing command and control networks. This makes it a highly flexible and adaptable system that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different customers.
One of the key strengths of the NASAMS system is its ability to detect and engage a wide range of air threats, including aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and cruise missiles. The system is equipped with a range of sophisticated sensors, including radar, electro-optical, and infrared sensors, which enable it to detect and track targets at long ranges and in all weather conditions. Once a target has been detected, the system can rapidly calculate its trajectory and determine the best course of action to engage it.
The NASAMS system is capable of firing a range of air defense missiles, including the AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) and the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) missile, which is a modified version of the AMRAAM missile. The system is also compatible with other missiles, including the AIM-9 Sidewinder and the IRIS-T air-to-air missiles.
The NASAMS system is highly mobile and can be rapidly deployed to different locations, making it an ideal air defense solution for rapid reaction forces and expeditionary missions. It can be mounted on a range of platforms, including trucks, trailers, and ships, and is designed to be operated by a relatively small crew.
In terms of specifications, the NASAMS system has a range of up to 25 kilometers and can engage targets at altitudes of up to 15 kilometers. It has a maximum engagement speed of Mach 3 and can engage multiple targets simultaneously. The system is highly reliable, with a demonstrated operational availability of over 99%.
The Here are some of the specifications of the system:
- Range: The NASAMS has a maximum range of approximately 25 km (15.5 miles) and a minimum range of 1.5 km (0.93 miles). It is capable of engaging targets at altitudes ranging from 15 m (50 ft) to 15 km (9.3 miles).
- Missiles: The system can launch various types of missiles, including the AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-9X Sidewinder, IRIS-T, and ESSM (Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile). It can also launch the Norwegian-developed AIM-132 ASRAAM missile.
- Launchers: The NASAMS launcher consists of a tracked or wheeled vehicle equipped with a launcher assembly that can hold up to six missiles. The launcher can be controlled remotely, enabling it to be operated from a protected command post.
- Sensors: The system is equipped with advanced radar and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors that provide 360-degree coverage and can detect and track targets at long ranges. It also has an integrated identification friend or foe (IFF) system to prevent the system from engaging friendly targets.
Command and control: The NASAMS is integrated with a networked command and control system that provides real-time situational awareness and allows for rapid response to airborne threats. The system can be integrated with other air defense systems, enabling it to share information and coordinate with other assets. - Mobility: The NASAMS is highly mobile and can be rapidly deployed to different locations using transport aircraft, trucks, or ships. Its mobility allows it to respond quickly to changing threats and provide air defense protection wherever it is needed.
Overall, the NASAMS is a highly capable air defense system that provides effective protection against a wide range of airborne threats. Its advanced sensors, flexible missile options, and integrated command and control system make it a valuable asset for military and civilian organizations seeking to protect key assets from air attack.