The XSSM-1 surface-to-ship missile developed by the Technical R&D Institute (TRDI) for the Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) is now proving its excellent performance in the United States.
The missile has been undergoing operational tests since late June at a test range in the United States. According to the Defense Agency (JDA), the missile succeeded 100% in hitting the target in all tests made so far, including the maximum-range test and an ECM (electronic countermeasure) test.
The XSSM-1 is now highly evaluated by U.S. military officials concerned as one of the best missiles in the world.
The XSSM-1 is a derivative of the Model 80 ASM-1 air-to-ship missile. The missile development is underway with a view to deployment at operational units in FY 1988.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has been promoting the development program as the prime contractor in cooperation with other electronics manufacturers.
The missile is powered by a solid rocket motor combined with a small jet engine. Its guidance system is a combination of the inertial guidance at the initial stage of the flight and active radar homing at the last stage.
It is five meters in overall length, 0.35 meters in diameter and it weighs 660 kilograms. Development cost is estimated at ¥24 billion. GSDF plans to procure the XSSM-1 missiles for 3.5 squadrons or 56 launchers under the current FY 1986-90 Medium-Term Defense Buildup Program.
