Australia Boosts Its Anti-Ship Missile Capabilities

Australia has declared its new Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) is now ready for operational deployment.

As per a press statement by the Australian Ministry of Defence, the missile recently successfully completed a series of firing trials from an F/A-18F Super Hornet at the Point Mugu Sea Range off the coast of California.

Australia has earmarked almost A$900 million (about £435 million) to acquire the LRASM, which has a maximum strike range of up to approximately 230 miles (370km). It carries a 1,000lb high-explosive warhead and is thought to be accurate to around three metres.

The tests were carried out in collaboration with Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Navy’s Naval Air Systems Command (Navair). They involved “targeting and successful weapon engagement” and a simulated long-range maritime strike.

The tests were supported by an Australian E-7A Wedgetail and EA-18G Growler aircraft alongside a U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon.

The U.S. Department of State approved the sale of up to 200 of the DARPA-developed missiles produced by Lockheed Martin to Australia back in 2020.

The MoD statement observed: “This activity delivers on the Albanese Government’s National Defence Strategy’s priorities for the Australian Air Force to deliver enhanced maritime, land and air strike capabilities as part of the integrated, focused force.”

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles added: “Capabilities such as the LRASM will help the Australian Defence Force protect against threats to Australia and our national interests.

“These weapon systems equip our forces to better protect Australia’s maritime approaches and when necessary, conduct operations in our region. It will be seen across the Super Hornet, Poseidon and F-35 fleets.”

A Navair social media statement noted: “This collaboration highlights our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, enhancing interoperable capabilities to strengthen collective deterrence in the region.”

• You can read more details on the Australian Ministry of Defence website