Thales Successfully Demonstrates Consecutive Firing of Lightweight Multi-role Missile

Thales UK, in collaboration with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), has taken a significant step forward in modern defense capabilities by showcasing the Lightweight Multi-role Missile (LMM) in a live demonstration at Manorbier. This event, witnessed by an audience of international defense partners, underscored the LMM’s versatility, precision, and operational adaptability across air, land, and sea domains.

Consecutive Firings Showcasing Versatility

In a groundbreaking display, Thales UK conducted consecutive firings of the LMM to neutralize two distinct threats: a Banshee Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) representing an air threat and a fast inshore attack craft (FIAC) simulating a maritime threat. Within just 60 seconds, two missiles were successfully launched, each tailored to its respective target. The seamless destruction of these targets highlighted the LMM’s rapid response capabilities, accuracy, and multi-role functionality.

Advanced Design and Deployment

The LMM, also known as the Martlet in its naval configuration, was deployed using a vehicle-mounted lightweight fire control and launch system developed by Thales UK. This innovative system showcased the missile's agility, lethality, and operational reliability. The LMM is designed to address diverse mission requirements, ranging from countering unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to engaging surface-based threats.

Specifications of the Lightweight Multi-role Missile

The LMM is built for precision and flexibility, featuring a range of advanced specifications:

• Weight: 13 kilograms
• Length: 1.3 meters
• Diameter: 76 millimeters
• Range: Effective up to 8 kilometers
• Guidance System: Semi-active laser guidance for pinpoint accuracy
• Warhead: Dual-effect, designed to engage both soft and hard targets effectively

Multi-platform Integration

A key highlight of the demonstration was the LMM's ability to adapt to various platforms. A Wildcat helicopter was displayed, showcasing its capacity to carry up to 20 LMMs in its naval configuration. Additionally, the event featured static displays of shoulder and tripod-mounted launchers, underlining the missile's compatibility with different operational scenarios. These capabilities make the LMM an invaluable asset for modern military forces operating in complex and dynamic threat environments.

Supporting UK Defence and Global Partnerships

The demonstration received strong support from the British Army and Royal Navy, reinforcing the LMM's role as a cornerstone of the UK's short-range defense strategy. Thales’ development of the LMM aligns with its commitment to equipping armed forces with advanced, multi-role weapon systems that address evolving security challenges.

With this successful demonstration, Thales UK has further solidified its position as a leader in the defense industry, offering innovative solutions to meet the needs of military forces worldwide. The LMM's proven performance in air defense and surface attack roles paves the way for its broader adoption across international markets.

This milestone underscores the importance of adaptable, precise, and reliable weaponry in today’s complex defense landscape, offering a glimpse into the future of multi-role missile technology.