What's Happening?
Kongsberg and Thales have successfully conducted the first live firing of their jointly developed StrikeMaster platform. This event took place in Norway and involved the integration of the Kongsberg Naval Strike Missile (NSM) onto a flatbed utility version
of Thales Australia's Bushmaster protected mobility vehicle (PMV). The test involved a blast test vehicle (BTV) equipped with the NSM's boost rocket motor. This demonstration is part of the companies' efforts to offer StrikeMaster as a solution for Australia's Land 8113 Phase 2 program, which seeks a land-based maritime strike capability for the Australian Army's second Long Range Fires Regiment. The NSM is known for its long-range, stealthy, and sea-skimming capabilities, making it a versatile option for both naval and land-based launchers.
Why It's Important?
The successful live firing of the StrikeMaster platform is a significant step in meeting Australia's defense needs for a long-range strike capability. By integrating the NSM with the Bushmaster PMV, Kongsberg and Thales are providing a low-risk solution that could enhance the Australian Army's operational capabilities. This development is crucial as it offers a potential alternative to Lockheed Martin's Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) Increment 2, which is also under consideration by the Australian Department of Defence. The StrikeMaster's ability to be built across Kongsberg's Adelaide and Thales Australia's Bendigo facilities could also bolster local defense manufacturing and create economic opportunities.
What's Next?
If selected for the Land 8113 Phase 2 program, the StrikeMaster platform will be produced in Australia, potentially leading to increased collaboration between Kongsberg and Thales and the Australian defense sector. The decision by the Australian Department of Defence will determine whether StrikeMaster or Lockheed Martin's PrSM will be chosen to fulfill the army's requirements. This decision will have implications for future defense procurement and strategic partnerships.
Beyond the Headlines
The development of the StrikeMaster platform highlights the growing importance of versatile and adaptable military technologies in modern defense strategies. The ability to deploy the NSM from both naval and land-based platforms without modifications underscores the need for flexible solutions in response to evolving threats. This capability could influence future military procurement decisions and shape the strategic landscape in the Asia-Pacific region.
