Kongsberg Wins Major Contract for Joint Strike Missiles
Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has successfully secured a follow-on contract from the United States Air Force to deliver additional Joint Strike Missiles (JSMs) for its fleet of fighter jets. This significant announcement was made on Friday, detailing the agreement which includes the supply of JSM all-up-rounds along with necessary containers, test hardware, and various support items. The production and assembly of these components will take place in Norway, with an anticipated completion date set for September 2027.
Eirik Lie, the president of Kongsberg, expressed enthusiasm about the contract, stating, “We are pleased to welcome the US Air Force to the JSM user group and look forward to continuing to support US defense capabilities with strike missiles from Kongsberg.” This highlights the strengthening relationship between Kongsberg and the US military as they work together to enhance defense capabilities.
Previous Orders and Contract Value
In June 2024, the US Air Force placed a similar order aimed at equipping its F-35A Lightning II multi-role aircraft with internal strike capabilities. This order was valued at $69.5 million, and with the latest contract, the total value of contracts for the JSM has now reached an impressive $208 million. This showcases the growing reliance on advanced missile systems to bolster air combat effectiveness.
The cumulative investment reflects the US Air Force’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into its fleet, ensuring that its aircraft are capable of executing complex missions. This strategic move not only enhances operational readiness but also underscores the vital role of international partnerships in defense procurement.
Understanding the Joint Strike Missile (JSM)
The Joint Strike Missile (JSM) is a state-of-the-art, long-range, precision-guided missile initially developed for the Royal Norwegian Air Force. It is based on the robust Naval Strike Missile and is designed to empower fixed-wing aircraft to effectively engage both land and naval targets. The JSM is equipped with a highly accurate navigation system coupled with an automatic target recognition feature, which is further enhanced by an advanced imaging infrared seeker.
Kongsberg has reported that the JSM boasts an effective strike range of up to 275 kilometers (approximately 170 miles) and is capable of flying at high subsonic speeds. This missile is specifically engineered to support various military operations, including anti-surface warfare, naval fire support, and long-range strike missions, making it a versatile asset in the modern battlefield.
