USN awards LRIP contract for ESSM weapons
The US Navy has awarded Raytheon a $190 million low-rate initial production contract for Block 2 versions of the Evolved SeaSparrow Missile (ESSM).
Block 2 ESSMs include a new guidance system with a dual mode active and semi-active radar, and this new award represents the transition from the development to the production phase of the navy’s enhanced intermediate-range, surface-to-air missile programme.
The Block 2 variant is due to achieve initial operating capability in 2020, and ESSM is the primary self-defence missile aboard navy aircraft carriers and large deck amphibious assault ships.
‘ESSM plays a critical role in protecting navy sailors worldwide and our international partners share our commitment to evolve this missile,’ Mitch Stevison, Raytheon’s strategic and naval systems vice president, said.
ESSM is also used by other allied navies of the US, and is operational on almost 200 naval platforms worldwide.
The ESSM programme is a cooperative effort managed by a NATO-led consortium comprising 12 nations, namely: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Turkey and the United States.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![A400M trial demonstrates airborne deployment of uncrewed surface vessel]()
A400M trial demonstrates airborne deployment of uncrewed surface vessel
Kraken Technology Group’s A400M airdrop of a K3 Scout uncrewed surface vessel points to a new way for navies to insert USVs into contested waters, bypassing ports and motherships.
-
![Babcock onshores 85% of Canada’s submarine supply chain as it eyes future CPSP programme]()
Babcock onshores 85% of Canada’s submarine supply chain as it eyes future CPSP programme
By moving most of the Royal Canadian Navy’s submarine supply chain into Canada, Babcock Canada is driving to strengthen sovereign sustainment capabilities while preparing to compete to maintain the future Canadian Patrol Submarine Project.
-
![From the seas to the web: the changing shape of UK defence in Southeast Asia]()
From the seas to the web: the changing shape of UK defence in Southeast Asia
As his final engagement before leaving his post as the head of the British defence staff for Southeast Asia and defence adviser to Singapore, Brigadier Eddie Maskell-Pedersen spoke with Shephard about maritime security, cyber cooperation and long-term partnerships.
-
![Baltic naval priorities shift towards mine warfare and versatile platforms]()
Baltic naval priorities shift towards mine warfare and versatile platforms
Baltic states are investing in mine warfare, uncrewed systems and multirole platforms as major warship purchases remain scarce, industry sources indicate.
