XM501 Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System

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Non-Line of Sight Launch System
NLOS-LS missile test launch from truck.jpg
NLOS missile launching from a CLU on the back of a truck
TypeSelf-contained missile launch system
Place of originUnited States
Production history
Designer Lockheed Martin and Raytheon
Unit costUS$500,000 per missile
ProducedCanceled
Specifications
Mass3,150 lb (1.43  t; 1.58 short tons)
Length45 in (1.1 m)
Width45 in (1.1 m)
Height78 in (2.0 m)

Launch
platform
CLU of 15 canistered missiles on truck, ship or ground

The Non-Line of Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS) was a self-contained missile launcher system that was under development by NETFIRES LLC, a partnership between Lockheed Martin and Raytheon. Each Container Launch Unit (CLU) holds 15 missiles, and a self-locating networked communications system. CLUs can be linked for coordinated launching, with the missiles fired and controlled remotely via autonomous vertical launch. The weapon is roughly 2 metres tall.

Contents

The program was cancelled early 2011. It was being developed for the United States Navy's Littoral Combat Ship, but has been criticised for performance issues. The Griffin missile has been recommended for use instead. NLOS-LS was to be used primarily on the United States Army's Future Combat Systems before it was canceled.

Concept

Two NLOS-LS CLUs loaded on a truck NLOS-LS truck.jpg
Two NLOS-LS CLUs loaded on a truck
Reloading a single missile NLOS LS reload.jpg
Reloading a single missile

There were to be two types of missile used with NLOS-LS: the Precision Attack Munition (PAM) and the Loitering Attack Munition (LAM). The LAM was originally contracted to Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, but the contract was terminated after costs rose and tests went poorly,[ citation needed ] after which, the PAM was the only armament currently being designed for the NLOS-LS. [1]

Precision Attack Munition (PAM)

Used to attack vehicles, armor, bunkers, and other targets of opportunity. Uses 3 modes of guidance, GPS/INS, semi-active laser homing, and autonomous imaging infrared. Carries a multi-mode warhead effective against several types of targets. It also includes an online library of pictures of targets, so that it can visually identify what it is homing in on.

Specifications

Loitering Attack Munition (LAM)

A loitering munition designed to fly to a preset area and loiter while autonomously seeking out targets.

Development

See also

The JUMPER missile system from Israel Aerospace Industries uses a similar concept, but with 8 missiles instead of 15 and without the IR seeker. [16]

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References

  1. NLOS-LS product sheet [ dead link ]
  2. "Raytheon PAM Lockheed Martin LAM (NetFires NLOS-LS) - Designation Systems".
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  4. Lockheed Martin, Netfires Llc Successfully Conduct Loitering Attack Missile Boost Vehicle Test - Lockheed Martin PR [ dead link ]
  5. NetFires LLC Precision Attack Missile Launch Paves the Way for Complete System Testing - Netfires LLC PR
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