Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System

Non-Line of Sight Launch System
NLOS missile launching from a CLU on the back of a truck
Type	Self-contained missile launch system
Place of origin	United States
Production history
Designer	Lockheed Martin and Raytheon
Unit cost	US$466,000 per missile
Produced	Canceled
Specifications
Weight	3,150 lb (1.58 short tons; 1.41 long tons)
Length	45 in (1.1 m)
Width	45 in (1.1 m)
Height	78 in (2.0 m)
Launch platform	CLU of 15 canistered missiles on truck, ship or ground

The Non-Line of Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS) was a self-contained missile launcher system that was under development by NETFIRES LLC, a partnership between Lockheed Martin and Raytheon. Each Container Launch Unit (CLU) holds 15 missiles, and a self-locating networked communications system. CLUs can be linked for coordinated launching, with the missiles fired and controlled remotely via autonomous vertical launch. The weapon is roughly 2 metres tall.

The program was cancelled early 2011. It was being developed for the United States Navy's Littoral Combat Ship, but has been criticised for performance issues. The Griffin missile has been recommended for use instead. NLOS-LS was to be used primarily on the United States Army's Future Combat Systems before it was canceled.

There were to be two types of missile used with NLOS-LS: the Precision Attack Munition (PAM) and the Loitering Attack Munition (LAM). The LAM was originally contracted to Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, but the contract was terminated after costs rose and tests went poorly. As it stands now, the PAM is the only armament currently being designed for the NLOS-LS.

Used to attack vehicles, armor, bunkers, and other targets of opportunity. Uses 3 modes of guidance, GPS/INS, semi-active laser homing, and autonomous imaging infrared. Carries a multi-mode warhead effective against several types of targets. It also includes an online library of pictures of targets, so that it can visually identify what it is homing in on.

Designed to fly to a preset area and loiter while autonomously seeking out targets.

The JUMPER missile system from Israel Aerospace Industries uses a similar concept, but with 8 missiles instead of 15 and without the IR seeker.