IDEX 2009 :ADSB, Raytheon pitching RAM missile support plan

Abu Dhabi Shipbuilding (ADSB) and Raytheon Missile Systems are discussing the establishment of a locally based intermediate-level support facility for RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) rounds being supplied to the UAE Naval Forces’ Baynunah corvette programme.The proposal forms the centrepiece of an offset package being put forward by Raytheon, in conjunction with ADSB, for a Direct Commercial Sale (DCS) of RAM missiles to the UAE government.

Co-developed and coproduced under a US/German co-operative agreement, the RAM Block 1A Helo/Air/ Surface (HAS) missile is a lightweight, quick reaction, high-firepower system designed to provide fire-and-forget defence against anti-ship cruise missiles, helicopters, other airborne threats, and hostile surface craft. The associated Mk 49 Mod 3 Guided Missile Launching System includes a 21-round trainable launcher, plus supporting below-deck electronics and control interface equipment.A DCS worth US$76.5m for the supply of seven Mk 49 Mod 3 launchers was signed by Raytheon and ADSB in January 2007. The first two systems were delivered in January this year: one to the CMN shipyard in Cherbourg, France, where the first-of-class Baynunah corvette is being outfitted; and one to ADSB to serve as a training and reference set.

The UAE has yet to decide whether to purchase the RAM Block 1A HAS missile rounds through a government-togovernment Foreign Military Sales (FMS) deal, or through a DCS sale. Raytheon believes the latter course offers greater flexibility and increased benefits for the customer.According to the company, the proposal to establish an in-country maintenance facility reflects Raytheon’s intention to become a full service provider. “We do not just want to deliver the weapons,” said an official close to the programme, “but also to put in place a structured support process for the customer.”

Under the formative plan, ADSB would establish a test bench facility to test and re-certify the UAE’s inventory of RAM missiles in accordance with Raytheon’s service schedule. It would also oversee any engineering changes or technology insertions.Further ahead, Raytheon suggests that the Mk 49 Mod 3 launcher hardware could also be maintained in-country using the same facility. Another possibility is that ADSB could become a regional hub for RAM intermediate-level support activities.

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