The Australian Army has tested an advanced NASAMS air defence system with AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles

The Australian Army recently received hands-on training in the use of the NASAMS air defence system. Australia will adopt an advanced surface-to-air missile system with domestic components.

Here's What We Know

The 16th Regiment of the Royal Australian Artillery participated in the air defence system test. According to the Australian Ministry of Defence, the tests were conducted to evaluate NASAMS components before delivery (before the end of May).

The defence ministry noted that Australia will receive an upgraded version of the Norwegian surface-to-air missile system. It will include an Australian-designed radar station and an infrared/optical sensor.

NASAMS for Australia will use AIM-9X Sidewinder and AIM-120 AMRAAM aircraft missiles modified for launch from the ground. They will be loaded in a Hawkei mobile launcher or in HX77 truck-based MK II containers.

Each unit will comprise three launchers. Full operational capability is scheduled to be achieved by 2026. The 16th Regiment of the Royal Australian Artillery will have two batteries of NASAMS surface-to-air missile systems by this time.

Source: Janes