SeaRAM system on a Japanese Izuma class helicopter carrier.
Source: Windows713 -
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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.
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.
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.
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.
The SeaRAM is based on the mount and fire control systems of the 20mm Phalanx CIWS.
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