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Kongsberg and Thales have successfully tested and analysed findings from the StrikeMaster missile launch vehicle, which seeks to be verified as a Coastal Defence System.
The live-fire test saw Naval Strike Missile (NSM) munitions being tested from the StrikeMaster system, using Thales’ Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle as the test platform for the twin NSM launch.
“I am extremely pleased that the engineering data we captured during the live-fire of StrikeMaster in Norway supports and validates the significant work that Kongsberg and Thales have performed to date on this system,” said John Fry, managing director of Kongsberg Australia.
“The results demonstrate the low-risk nature of this launcher configuration and the suitability of the Bushmaster vehicle as a reliable and capable launch platform for our Naval Strike Missile.”
StrikeMaster, which is Kongsberg’s NSM Coastal Defence System (CDS) set-up, has the capability to deploy long-range, land-based maritime strikes and land attacks.
Findings from the test mission indicated that using Thales’ Bushmaster vehicle is a “low-risk launch platform” due to the proven structural durability of the vehicle in live-fire environments.
The test also uncovered that the system exceeded multiple benchmarks in crew safety measures, internal cabin nose, cabin pressure, gas ingress and visibility.
Kongsberg said that while working alongside the engineering teams at Thales, “experience and expertise” from the defence companies were valuable in supporting the technical knowledge needed to enable StrikeMaster to be a successful CDS.
“This comprehensive data from the live-fire testing in Norway confirms that the StrikeMaster exceeded performance expectations, is both operationally effective and ensures the highest standards of crew safety,” said Jeff Connolly, CEO of Thales Australia.
“The results demonstrate not only the precision and reliability of the system but the depth of engineering and advanced manufacturing expertise we have built here in Australia.
“This data validation is clear assurance that StrikeMaster is a robust, safe and highly capable launch solution.”
