Norway and Germany start development of supersonic cruise missile SuperSonic Strike Missile
The Norwegian government announced the start of development of a next-generation cruise missile in cooperation with Germany. The Norwegian defense company Kongsberg will act as the main contractor for the project.
The new technology will complement the existing Naval Strike Missile (NSM) cruise missiles. The new missile is likely to cover maritime space at distances of more than 200 kilometers, beyond the range of the NSM.
The experience and technologies used in the development of the Naval Strike Missile will be used to develop the new missile. The NSM is a subsonic cruise missile equipped with a Microturbo TRI-40 turbojet engine and a rocket booster for initial speed.
During the flight path, the missile is guided by an inertial system with coordination of the GPS satellite signal. When approaching a target, the infrared homing head is activated, comparing its profile with the image from the onboard database and, if it matches, striking.
Among anti-ship missiles, such as the US Harpoon and French Exocet, the NSM is distinguished by the widespread use of stealth technologies that reduce the risk of detection by enemy anti-aircraft systems. In particular, the missile design and composite materials in its composition are adapted to reduce radar radiation.
Another best practice used in the NSM is the warhead made of a heavy-duty titanium alloy; the penetrating warhead is equipped with a programmable fuze that initiates the charge when an obstructive cavity is detected. This avoids premature wear and tear and increases the potential impact of the explosion on the target.
