ArmChairCivvy wrote:Less development to put JSM onto F35s (won't fit internally, but as an anti-ship weapon, and secondarily as a cruise missile that is not a huge penalty) and the VLS version of the same onto our ships?
... even though it is being built for mk 41 integration as things stand
It is, but they're a completely different class of weapon.
I believe there is a strong case for the JSM as a replacement for harpoon, coming deck and VLS launched, as well as returning to an air launched capability for F35 and P8. Much more modern than harpoon, and importantly the only one that ticks all the boxed for our platform.
The project with the french is a good thing, but it will be over two decades until it is integrated fleet wide, there has to be something in the interim. Upgraded harpoon could do it, but is that going to last 20 years? That’s what makes me think we need a new missile.
The UK has is managing without an air-launched anti-ship missile because the UK is managing without MPA’s and carriers. I would suggest once those capabilities are regenerated they will become the primary anti shipping platforms, due to the line of sight limitations of surface platforms, and the need to increase our sphere of influence. That will requite the F35 and P8 to either have their own anti-ship missiles, or be able to guide a surface launched missile to the target, neither of which our harpoon can do.