The US Marine Corps has successfully test-launched a Naval Strike Missile (NSM) from a modified uncrewed Oshkosh Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) after conducting an internal rapid modification program.

The test saw the missile launched from the stripped-down JLTV – known as ‘Rogue-fires’ – which had its cab removed and autonomous controls, a ground launcher, and fire-control system added, with the missile reportedly hitting a target at sea.

Called Navy Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS), the complete system was devised by USMC personnel and the modification and test shoot was conducted with industry support from Raytheon technologies, KONGSBERG, and Oshkosh.

“This is the speed at which we have to move,” USMC Commandant Gen David Berger told a congressional hearing on May 6. “Our job is to support the fleet commander, the fleet’s job is to support the joint force commander, and this is one way to do that. Now we can move this around on vessels, put it ashore, and hold an adversary’s navy at risk in order to ensure that the lines on the sea are kept open.”

Speaking to NavalNews, vice president of Naval Power at Raytheon, Kim Ernzen said, “Our Naval Strike Missile is a vital weapon for denying enemies the use of key maritime terrain. This test further demonstrates our partnership for advancing the Marine Corps’ modernisation priorities of enabling sea control and denial operations.”