Modern ship self-defense

The RAM guided missile weapon system is the world’s most modern ship self-defense weapon and is designed to provide exceptional protection for ships of all sizes. It's currently deployed on more than 165 ships in 11 countries, ranging from 500-ton fast attack craft to 95,000-ton aircraft carriers, and is being installed on several new U.S. Navy ship classes.

A supersonic, lightweight, quick-reaction, fire-and-forget weapon, the RAM system is designed to destroy anti-ship missiles. Requiring no additional direction upon launch, its passive radio frequency and infrared guidance design provide high firepower to engage multiple threats simultaneously. The missile is continually improved to stay ahead of the ever-evolving threat of anti-ship missiles, helicopters, aircraft and surface craft.

RAM Block 2 missile

The RAM Block 2 missile provides kinematic and guidance improvements that allow it to meet evolving threats, increasing the survivability of the defended ship.

Launching system

RAM missiles are deployed via the MK49 RAM Guided Missile Launching System (GMLS) and the MK15 Mod 32 SeaRAM® Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) on more than 100 ships ranging from fast patrol boats to aircraft carriers. The system is designed to be easily integrated into many different ships. A variety of existing ship sensors can readily provide the target and pointing information required to engage the anti-ship threat. The Close-In Weapon System’s sensor suite and internal combat management system reduces dependency on the ship’s combat system and enables a fast reaction to stressing anti-ship missiles.

International cooperation

The RAM weapon system is a cooperative program between the U.S. and German governments with industry support from Raytheon and RAMSYS of Germany.

RAM missiles are the world's most advanced system for self-defense of ships, defending ships of all classes. (Photo courtesy of the US Navy)

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Navy asks Raytheon to build RAM for shipboard air defense against aircraft and boats

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