An AIM-9X Block II missile was fired from a NASAMS launcher in a demonstration test last month in Norway. Credit: Kongsberg.

Raytheon and the Royal Norwegian Air Force have performed the debut launch of an AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II short-range missile from a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) launcher.

The launch took place during a demonstration test last month at the Andoya Test Center in Norway. During the flight test, the Sidewinder missile engaged and destroyed a target.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

The missile is expected to add a new layer for ground-based defence. Raytheon added enhancements to the Sidewinder, including a redesigned fuse and a digital ignition safety device for improved ground handling and in-flight safety.

Raytheon’s AIM-9X Sidewinder can be deployed to perform air-to-air engagements, surface-attack and surface-launch missions without the need for modifications.

The missile can be easily installed on a range of aircraft, including the F-15, F-16, F/A-18, E/A-18G, F-22 and F-35 combat jets.

It is in service with the US Armed Forces and 24 foreign military sales partners.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Core components of a NASAMS fire unit include a Kongsberg Fire Distribution Center, missile launchers, and Raytheon Sentinel radar and interceptors.

The air defence system features Raytheon’s AMRAAM missile as the baseline short to medium-range interceptor.

Raytheon air warfare systems vice-president Kim Ernzen said: “This flight test opened the door for NASAMS customers to add a vital, short-range layer to their ground-based air defence.

“Pairing Sidewinder with AMRAAM means forces can have complementary interceptors with a mix of sensors to better engage and destroy threats that may attempt to overwhelm a defence system.”

NASAMS is produced by Raytheon in partnership with Kongsberg. It can identify, engage and destroy threats, including enemy aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicle and cruise missiles. It is part of the air defence system that protects the US National Capital Region.

NASAMS is in use with seven countries, including the US. Two more nations have placed orders for the system.