Naval Strike Missile (NSM)

The Naval Strike Missile (NSM) program is designed to enhance the Marine Corps' capabilities through the Navy/Marine Corps Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS). This initiative aims to provide a ground-based, anti-ship capability by equipping Medium Range Missile (MMSL) batteries with NSMs. These batteries are integral to the Marine Corps' artillery modernization plan and will be deployed with Marine Littoral Regiments and Marine Expeditionary Units. The NSM is encased in a firing canister, which includes a flight vehicle with components such as a warhead, propulsion system, and guidance system.

The primary objective of the NSM program is to procure missiles annually from FY 2024 through FY 2029, aligning with the artillery modernization plan's requirements. This procurement supports load and reload needs for MMSL batteries, ensuring readiness for deployment in strategic regions like the Indo-Pacific. The program operates under a five-year Multi-Year Procurement (MYP) contract from FY 2024 to FY 2028, which aims to achieve cost savings through bulk purchasing and advanced procurement strategies.

The NSM program involves collaboration between various defense contractors, including Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace and Raytheon Missiles and Defense. These partnerships are crucial for maintaining production schedules and managing supply chain challenges. The program anticipates a lead time of approximately 30 months from contract award to delivery, necessitating advance procurement to meet operational timelines.

The NSM program focuses on enhancing maritime interdiction capabilities while optimizing costs through strategic procurement practices. By leveraging multi-year contracts and advance procurement strategies, the program seeks to deliver substantial savings over its duration while fulfilling critical defense objectives for the Navy and Marine Corps.