The Royal Navy has carried out the first live firing of the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) from HMS Somerset, marking a significant step in modernising the fleet’s strike capability. The trial took place at the Andøya range in northern Norway during Exercise Aegir 25, alongside allied Norwegian and Polish forces.
The missile, weighing 400kg, is capable of striking both warships and land targets at ranges of more than 100 miles. It replaces the long-serving Harpoon system on the Royal Navy’s Type 23 frigates and Type 45 destroyers, offering greater range, advanced guidance, and improved precision.
Defence Minister for Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard described the firing as a milestone for both the UK and its allies.
“The NSM is one of the most advanced missiles in our naval arsenal. It will give the Royal Navy and our partners an edge against our adversaries. This success, achieved in partnership with Norway, strengthens our deterrent and reflects the government’s commitment to investing in the technologies needed to keep Britain secure.”
Commander Matt Millyard, commanding officer of HMS Somerset, praised the efforts behind the achievement.
“I am very proud of the team following the successful first-of-class firing of the Naval Strike Missile. This has involved an enormous amount of work across the ship’s company and the wider defence enterprise. The professionalism and teamwork throughout the planning and execution have been exemplary.”
The introduction of the NSM is part of a broader programme to equip the Royal Navy with more capable weapons, ensuring it remains able to meet evolving threats at sea and operate effectively alongside NATO partners.
