SeaRAM

Overview

SeaRAM

SeaRAM system on a Japanese Izuma class helicopter carrier.
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Origin

United States

Type

Close-in weapon system
Naval SAM system

Entered service

2009

Status

In service

Development

2000's

Developer

United States - Raytheon

Production

2008 - present

Producer

United States - Raytheon

Notable users

United States
Japan

Description

Introduction

The SeaRAM is a modern close-in weapon system of US origin. Unlike the previous systems using the RIM-116 RAM missile the SeaRam is a standalone system. It doesn’t need to be integrated into the ship’s combat management system to receive fire control inputs.

Design

The SeaRAM combines the RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile with the fire control suite of the 20mm Phalanx CIWS. The mount, radar systems and optronics suite of the Mk 15 Block 1B variant of the Phalanx are used. Instead of a 20mm M61A1 Vulcan gatling gun an 11-cell missile launcher is fitted.

Firepower

The RIM-116 RAM missile is based on a spin-stabilized version of the AIM-9 Sidewinder air to air missile. The rocket motor, warhead and fuze are retained. The seeker is replaced by a dual mode seeker. This combines the infrared guidance as used on the FIM-92 Stinger with passive radar that homes in on radiation emitted from the target missile’s active radar seeker. Maximum effective range is 9 km. Its maximum flight speed is Mach 2.

Users

The SeaRAM is in use with the US Navy since the late 2000’s. It is to be fitted to some of the newer LCS corvettes and Arleigh Burke class destroyers. In Japanese service it is used on the Izumo class helicopter carriers. It has also been ordered by Saudi Arabia.