CAMM 3-cell ExLS completes qualification trials
MBDA and Lockheed Martin have completed qualification of MBDA’s Common Anti-air Modular Missile (CAMM) from Lockheed Martin’s Extensible Launching System (ExLS) 3-cell standalone launcher following a series of trials.
ExLS leverages the design and electronics of Lockheed Martin’s Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS).
The compact vertical launch 3-cell ExLS system has been designed specifically for smaller naval platforms that are unable to accommodate the larger 8-cell MK 41 VLS. ExLS is also designed to fit inside the ExLS Host MK 41 launcher, offering flexible, adaptable installation solutions for larger ships to achieve high combat mass within a small on-board footprint.
CAMM is a highly compact missile that enables multiple weapons to be fitted in limited spaces. When operated from ExLS or MK 41 VLS, CAMM comes in a quad-pack arrangement which enables a single cell to store and fire four missiles.
Joe DePietro, VP of small combatants and ship systems, Lockheed Martin: ‘The success of these trials is testament to the hard work and close co-operation of MBDA and Lockheed Martin. A launcher within a launcher, ExLS uses CAMM canistered munitions with its qualified launch electronics to cut integration costs by more than 50%.
‘It is a mature design that when paired with CAMM offers a low-cost alternative for integrating new missiles and munitions into current and future surface combatants.’
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy bets on radio frequency to increase vessel protection against aerial threats]()
US Navy bets on radio frequency to increase vessel protection against aerial threats
A Northrop Grumman RF-based defensive capability will equip USN destroyers and aircraft carriers to enhance their survivability against missile and drone attacks.
-
![Naval Group’s Barracuda bid could deepen Franco-Greek naval alignment]()
Naval Group’s Barracuda bid could deepen Franco-Greek naval alignment
As the Hellenic Navy looks to replace its ageing submarines with a next-generation fleet, other likely contenders for the programme include TKMS, Saab, Fincantieri, Navantia and Hanwha Ocean.
-
![Australia is ramping up its uncrewed surface fleet as Sea Archer lines up for key requirement]()
Australia is ramping up its uncrewed surface fleet as Sea Archer lines up for key requirement
As advances in uncrewed technology increasingly shape Australia’s maritime future, Shephard spoke with the country’s head of navy capability and a Leidos Australia executive about the operational advantages behind the shift.
-
![Gulf tensions force Western navies to confront mine warfare shortfalls]()
Gulf tensions force Western navies to confront mine warfare shortfalls
The conversion of RFA Lyme Bay comes during signs that European navies may once again need to cooperate on Gulf mine clearance operations.
