Frigate tests new missile off Norway

On-board cameras show a Royal Navy warship successfully firing a powerful new type of missile for the first time.

HMS Somerset, based in Plymouth, launched the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) during a training exercise in Norway, working alongside Norwegian and Polish forces.

The missile can hit targets more than 100 miles (160km) away and is designed to replace the older Harpoon system.

The NSM is faster, more accurate, and harder to detect, the navy said.

Cdr Matt Millyard, HMS Somerset's commanding officer said: "This is not something that comes together easily and has involved an incredible amount of work by the crew and staff from across the defence enterprise."

Defence Minister Luke Pollard called the NSM "one of the most advanced missiles in our arsenal," adding that it strengthens the UK's ability to defend itself and support allies.

The missile firing took place at Norway's Andøya rocket range as part of Exercise Aegir 25, which continues until the end of the month.

The NSM is now fitted to three Royal Navy ships and will work alongside future long-range weapons on next-generation warships.

This test also highlights the close defence partnership between the UK and Norway, which helped make the launch possible in record time.

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