The United States has recently confirmed a significant defense sale to Taiwan, involving the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) valued at nearly $700 million. This advanced air defense system is recognized for its capability to protect against a variety of aerial threats, including aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, and cruise missiles.
NASAMS was collaboratively developed by Raytheon in the United States and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace in Norway. Achieving operational capability in 1994, it was initially deployed by the Royal Norwegian Air Force. Over the years, its deployment has expanded to 13 countries, including significant integration into the U.S. National Capital Region's air defense since 2005.
In addition to the U.S. and Norway, nations such as Finland, Spain, The Netherlands, Oman, Lithuania, Indonesia, Australia, Qatar, Hungary, Ukraine, and one undisclosed country rely on NASAMS to safeguard their territories and vital assets.
NASAMS is distinguished by its modular, distributed, open-hardware and software architecture. As the world's first networked short- and medium-range air defense system, it can seamlessly integrate with other equipment and systems. Central to its operation is an X-Band, 360-degree phased array radar with a reach of 75 kilometers, proficient in target identification.
The system's primary weapon, the AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile (AMRAAM), boasts an engagement range of approximately 30 kilometers. NASAMS is equipped with three launchers, each capable of carrying up to six missiles, allowing it to engage up to 72 targets simultaneously in both active and passive modes.
The network-centric, open architecture of NASAMS enhances its survivability against electronic countermeasures. Additionally, it can fire using target data from external sensors, while advanced emission control features minimize the risk of detection.
In conclusion, NASAMS represents a crucial component of modern air defense, providing robust protection and flexibility to its operators around the globe.
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