Royal Navy to Integrate Naval Strike Missile for Enhanced Naval Capability
The Royal Navy is set to integrate the Naval Strike Missile (NSM), a Norwegian anti-ship and land attack missile, into its fleet by late 2025. The NSM was first launched from HMS Somerset during Exercise Aegir 25 in September 2025, marking its operational debut.
The missile replaces the Harpoon system, which was retired in December 2023, and is significantly more advanced, boasting a range of over 100 miles and a weight of 400 kg. Currently in use by the US, Polish, and Norwegian navies, the NSM operates at supersonic speeds. In addition, the Royal Navy is progressing with the Proteus Technology Demonstrator Project, which will test a large unmanned helicopter, with its first flight scheduled for January 2026, aiming to inform future development for maritime surveillance and strike capabilities.
