Norway successfully tests AMRAAM-ER extended range missile variant.

The Norwegian Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with Raytheon and national defense contractors, has unveiled a significant advancement in military capabilities with the successful inaugural flight test of an upgraded variant of the AMRAAM-Extended Range (ER) missile integrated into the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). Announced on Tuesday, February 27th, this achievement marks a critical advancement in military air defense technology, highlighting improved guidance and propulsion systems essential for safeguarding national security interests.
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First flight test for news AMRAAM- ER variant highlights its increased capabilities (Picture source: RTX Raytheon )

During this test, Norway showcased its advanced air defense technology, demonstrating the enhanced guidance and propulsion capabilities of the missile. Key features of the upgraded missile include an AIM-120C-8 guidance system, offering improved target tracking and engagement capabilities, a more robust 10-inch Nammo rocket motor, increasing range and speed for more effective defense, and a 10-inch Control Actuator System from Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, enhancing agility and maneuverability for precise target interception. This combination, known as the "Norwegian Propulsion Stack," significantly strengthens NASAMS' ability to counter evolving aerial threats.

Paul Ferraro of Raytheon emphasized the strategic significance of this advancement, highlighting its role in ensuring national security. He noted that integrating this new technology into the AMRAAM-ER secures the advanced capabilities of the surface-launched munition for many years to come, with agile software upgrades continuing to advance AMRAAM to stay ahead of evolving threats.

Since its inception in 2015, the AMRAAM-ER saga has been a journey through the heart of innovation and relentless testing. Each live-fire test in 2021 marked a new chapter in the art of air defense warfare, promising a revolution with a range extended by 50% and an altitude capability increased by 70% compared to its predecessors. Raytheon continues to refine and innovate, ensuring the AMRAAM-ER remains a titan among mortals in defending the skies, assets, and our way of life, thus defining the future curve of air security.

The AMRAAM-ER is designed to integrate with the NASAMS launcher to enhance air defense protection by intercepting targets at increased ranges and altitudes compared to a non-extended range AMRAAM.

NASAMS, a highly adaptable medium-range air defense solution, is jointly developed and produced by Raytheon and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. Drawing on decades of experience, industrial cooperation, and significant investment by all three parties, this new cooperative arrangement will expand NASAMS' capabilities to ensure it keeps pace with ever-evolving complex threats.

Defense News March 2024