Key Highlights:
Introduction to NOMADS:
- The Norwegian company Kongsberg unveiled the National Maneuver Air Defense System (NOMADS) at Eurosatory 2024 in Paris.
- NOMADS is a mobile short-range air defense system (M-SHORAD) designed for flexibility and adaptability.
- The system features a modular design that allows integration with various vehicles, providing a customizable solution for different military needs.
Current Deployments and Orders:
- The Norwegian Army has ordered six NOMADS vehicles, three of which have already been delivered.
- The Netherlands has shown interest in purchasing 18 NOMADS vehicles, indicating a growing demand for this versatile system.
- Germany has proposed delivering NOMADS to Ukraine to bolster its air defense capabilities.
System Specifications:
- Modular Compatibility: NOMADS can be mounted on any vehicle meeting size and payload requirements, although Norway uses the ACSV G5 from the German company FFG.
- Weapons and Sensors:
- Equipped with two launch containers, each holding two missiles.
- Uses 3D AESA radar from Weibel Scientific in Denmark.
- Features a remote-controlled fire station with day/night cameras, thermal imaging, and a laser range finder.
Missile Capabilities:
- Initially designed to use IRIS-T missiles from Diehl Defence.
- Transitioning to Raytheon AIM-9X-II Sidewinder missiles due to production constraints on the IRIS-T.
- Full integration of AIM-9X-II missiles expected between 2026-2028 as per the Norwegian Defense Logistics Agency.
Integration and Networking:
- NOMADS integrates seamlessly with NASAMS and other NATO systems through Link 16, enhancing its networking and interoperability.
- The XENTA-M radar offers 360-degree coverage, capable of detecting aircraft, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
Potential Challenges:
- Limited ammunition capacity, with only four missiles, could be a concern in high-intensity conflicts.
- Solving the ammunition issue is critical for attracting more NATO customers and enhancing system effectiveness.
Strategic Importance for Ukraine:
- Ukraine's air defense capabilities, already strengthened with Patriot and SAMP/T systems, would benefit from NOMADS' mobility and adaptability.
- The system provides enhanced protection for forward units and bolsters close defense lines.
- NOMADS' ability to integrate with existing defense networks like Link 16 adds strategic value, enabling coordinated defense against diverse air threats.
Broader Implications:
- The addition of NOMADS would diversify Ukraine's air defense arsenal, increasing its resilience against continued Russian airstrikes.
- The system's adaptability makes it a valuable asset for protecting critical infrastructure and military assets.
- Successful deployment and integration of NOMADS could pave the way for broader adoption within NATO and beyond.
Conclusion
Germany's proposal to supply Ukraine with the NOMADS air defense system represents a significant step in enhancing Ukraine's air defense capabilities. With its modular design, integration capabilities, and advanced missile systems, NOMADS offers a flexible and robust solution to counter various aerial threats. Addressing the ammunition limitation could further solidify its role in Ukraine's defense strategy.
