BAE Systems to design Next Generation RIM-162 ESSM Launch System for US Navy.

According to a PR published by BAE Systems on July 6, 2023, BAE Systems has been awarded a contract from the U.S. Department of Defense Ordnance Technology Consortium (DOTC) worth $37 million to design a Next Generation Evolved SeaSparrow Missile Launch System (NGELS).
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Adaptable Deck Launcher scale model on BAE Systems stand at SNA 2018. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

This new launcher will support the latest and most highly capable Evolved SeaSparrow Missile (ESSM) variant, the Block 2, providing robust defense capabilities against advanced air and surface threats.

The NGELS leverages BAE's Adaptable Deck Launcher (ADL) concept to store and launch missiles from Mk 25 canisters, which BAE Systems also produces.

This fixed-angle, deck-mounted launcher is easily integrated into large deck platforms, enhancing the defense capabilities of U.S. Navy aircraft carriers and amphibious ships against missile threats.

Brent Butcher, VP of the weapon systems product line at BAE Systems, stated that the company has a long history of providing missile integration, launching systems, and canister design to the U.S. Navy.

He also expressed confidence in NGELS, describing it as a ready-to-deploy system that enhances mission effectiveness and provides reliable ship defense. In addition to serving the U.S. Navy, BAE Systems plans to introduce the enhanced capabilities of the NGELS to international users as well.

RIM-162 ESSM

Weighing in at 620 lb or 280 kg, it showcases a formidable size at a length of 12 ft or 3.66 meters, with a diameter of 10 inches or 254 mm.

Equipped with an 86 lb (39 kg) blast-fragmentation warhead, the missile carries a substantial payload. This warhead is designed to detonate via a proximity fuze, ensuring maximal damage upon nearing its target.

Powering the ESSM is the Mk 143 Mod 0 solid fuel rocket engine, which enables the missile to reach an impressive operational range of over 27 nautical miles (50 km+). It can hit maximum speeds of over Mach 4, allowing rapid response and deployment in active combat scenarios.

The ESSM's guidance system incorporates a mid-course update datalink, and for the Block 1 variant, it utilizes terminal semi-active radar homing. The Block 2 variant employs a dual semi-active/active radar homing system, enhancing its tracking and targeting capabilities.

The missile is compatible with a variety of launch platforms including the Mk 41 VLS (RIM-162A/B), Mk 48 VLS (RIM-162C), Mk 56 VLS, Mk 57 VLS (RIM-162F), and Mk 29 box launcher (RIM-162D/G), providing the versatility needed for varying deployment situations.