Marine Corps explores potential of ship-killing NMESIS
NMESIS fires an Naval Strike Missile from a launcher and fire control system integrated on a remotely controlled Joint Light Tactical Vehicle. (Photo: Oshkosh Defense)
The USMC is advancing plans for a new fleet of robotically controlled, ship-killing ground vehicles as part of its Force Design 2030 effort to reconfigure the force against potential threats from China.
It is pressing ahead with development of a new capability that pairs a modified Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) with a Naval Strike Missile (NSM).
Without fanfare, the USMC in November 2020 conducted what it says was a successful test of the Navy and Marine Corps Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS). This is a planned initial material solution to meet a ground-based anti-ship missile requirement, as
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
Front-line support: how UK industry is helping tackle Ukraine’s landmine challenges
Pearson Engineering has provided equipment and engineering expertise to the Armed Forces of Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022. The British company is now working to deepen engagement with the Ukrainian defence industry, expanding its support for the country’s population and laying the foundations for future technological innovation.
-
AUSA 2026: industry looks to make commercial platforms a military reality
With a production rate of more than 10 million vehicles annually, the US commercial car and vehicle manufacturing base is second only to China. Defence companies are looking at how the vehicles, technology and manufacturing capability can support programmes.
-
With changing patterns in Middle Eastern procurement, is Europe missing out?
Traditional suppliers are struggling to meet the Middle East’s armoured vehicle modernisation needs, creating opportunities for South Korean manufacturers and regional defence industries.
-
AUSA 2026: CUAS market expands as suppliers target new threats and operational requirements
New developments from MARSS, MyDefence, Mountain Horse Solutions and Rafael suggest that future counter-drone protection will increasingly depend on combining advanced detection, rapid interception and integrated defensive networks.