The BTV firing marks the culmination of the ‘First of Type’ testing for the Australian-built launcher. Constructed with components manufactured locally, the launcher underwent rigorous trials to validate its functionality in a live firing scenario, using a booster rocket motor and a dummy missile.
The launcher canister was produced by Aerobond Defence in Adelaide, with the frame and rail manufactured by Marand Precision Engineering in Melbourne. Additional precision-machined components were supplied by Australian Precision Technologies (APT) in Melbourne and QPE Advanced Machining in Adelaide, highlighting a strong local supply chain.
Testing took place at the Commonwealth Joint Proofing Experimental Unit (JPEU) at Port Wakefield, where the successful event demonstrated the operational readiness of Australian-built NSM launchers. This achievement is a key step in establishing a qualified domestic supply chain for the NSM program.
“This successful BTV firing from an Australian-made launcher is a key milestone in the delivery of the NSM capability to the Royal Australian Navy,” said John Fry, Managing Director of Kongsberg Defence Australia. “It now allows Kongsberg Defence Australia to commence full-rate production of Australian-made NSM launchers for the NSM program.”
Fry expressed gratitude to the Australian supply chain partners, including Aerobond, Marand, APT, and QPE, for their dedication to meeting the project’s ambitious timeline. He also thanked the personnel from JPEU and the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Group for their support in the successful test event.
As a GWEO Strategic Partner, KONGSBERG remains committed to fostering sovereign defence capabilities by collaborating with Australian small and medium enterprises.
