British Frigate Launches NSM Missile for the First Time in History

The Royal Navy frigate Somerset executed its first-ever combat launch of a Naval Strike Missile (NSM) anti-ship missile.

The missile launch took place during the Aegir 25 exercises in northern Norway, which involved comprehensive maritime scenarios.

The UK Ministry of Defence reported that the tests were conducted in coordination with NATO allies – Norway and Poland.

Somerset became the first ship in the Royal Navy to be upgraded with modernized onboard systems and mounting points to support transport-launch containers for the NSM.

The Type 23 frigates were initially designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare. Their standard armament includes Sea Wolf surface-to-air missiles and, in their basic configuration, Harpoon anti-ship missiles.

The modernization of Somerset is being carried out as part of the procurement program for Norwegian Naval Strike Missile (NSM) systems, serving as an interim solution until the arrival of the new Franco-British Future Offensive Surface Weapon (FOSW).

The Naval Strike Missile is intended to replace the American Harpoon Block 1C anti-ship missiles on certain Royal Navy vessels.

In November 2022, the United Kingdom and Norway agreed on the supply of Norwegian NSM missiles to arm British ships.

The modernization plan includes upgrading six Type 45 destroyers and eleven Type 23 anti-submarine frigates.

The decision to adopt the NSM is attributed to its versatility, as the missile can engage both surface and land targets, thereby broadening its operational use.

NSM’s technical characteristics include a TRI-40 cruise turbofan engine and a solid‑fuel booster; its maximum range exceeds 185 km, and its high‑explosive warhead weighs approximately 120 kg.

This launch highlights the Royal Navy’s commitment to enhancing the strike capabilities of its fleet and integrating modern, multifunctional missile systems.