Ship Self Defense (Engage: Hard Kill)

The Ship Self Defense (Engage: Hard Kill) program is focused on enhancing the Navy's ability to protect its vessels from Anti-Ship Cruise Missiles (ASCM) and other threats through advanced missile systems. This initiative involves developing and integrating several missile systems, including the NATO Sea Sparrow, Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM), and Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) SeaRAM. The primary objective is to improve missile kinematic performance, seeker technology, and warhead capabilities to ensure effective interception of incoming threats. Additionally, the program emphasizes integrating these systems into existing ship combat systems for seamless operation.

The Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) program, developed in collaboration with Germany, provides a surface-to-air self-defense system for naval ships. The RAM Block 2B variant is being integrated into the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) Baseline 12 Combat System to enhance defense against highly maneuverable ASCM threats. Key efforts include developing software updates through the RAM Software Factory and conducting experiments in the RAM "Performance Lab" to optimize missile performance and integration with ship systems. The program also aims to incorporate an Electronic Sensor Measurement System (ESMS) for improved mid-course guidance and kill assessment.

The NATO Sea Sparrow project enhances ship self-defense through the Evolved SEASPARROW Missile (ESSM) system. This cooperative effort among NATO nations aims to provide robust defense against ASCM threats by integrating ESSM Block 1 and Block 2 missiles into various naval platforms. The project includes system integration and testing, software upgrades, and development of a Next Generation Launching System to increase missile capacity. Efforts are also underway to address obsolescence issues and improve tracking capabilities through upgrades to the Tracker-Illuminator System.

The Over-The-Horizon (OTH) Missile initiative seeks to equip Littoral Combat Ships and Frigates with a modern surface-to-surface missile capability. This involves competitive acquisition, testing, and fielding of the OTH Missile Launch System. The program supports fleet evaluation and live fire testing while transitioning towards full-rate production. Meanwhile, the Phalanx CIWS SEARAM project aims to integrate the latest RAM Block 2B missile variant into the MK 15 MOD 40 baseline, enhancing defense against advanced raid attacks on Nimitz Class Carriers.