Boeing and Nammo Successfully Test Groundbreaking Long-Range Ramjet Artillery

Boeing and the Norwegian defense and aerospace firm Nammo have successfully conducted a test-fire of a ramjet-powered artillery shell, further showcasing the effectiveness of one of the U.S. Army’s modernization goals – long-range precision strike capabilities.

During the June 28 trial at the Andøya Test Center in Norway, a Boeing Ramjet 155 projectile was launched from a cannon, and its ramjet engine ignited flawlessly. This event demonstrated stable flight with a precisely controlled combustion process.

“We are confident that the Boeing Ramjet 155, with ongoing technology advancement and evaluation, can assist the U.S. Army in achieving its long-range precision strike modernization objectives,” stated Steve Nordlund, vice president and general manager of Boeing Phantom Works. “This successful trial signifies that we are making substantial progress.”

“This is a pivotal moment for Nammo,” articulated Nammo Chief Executive Officer Morten Brandtzæg. “The test results illustrate that ramjets are viable and have the potential to revolutionize the future of artillery.

“We possess significant confidence in the ramjet concept,” Brandtzæg remarked. “The test – with all elements, from cannon discharge to projectile structure, fins, and trajectory functioning impeccably – signifies a true technological advancement in artillery, and a landmark achievement for Boeing, Nammo, and the U.S. Army.”

The extensive long-range test at Andøya follows numerous years of research, development, and evaluation by Boeing and Nammo concerning ramjet technology, comprising over 450 static or short-range tests.

Boeing Phantom Works and Nammo have been collaborating under a strategic alliance to co-develop and manufacture the next generation of enhanced artillery projectiles. In July 2019, the Boeing-Nammo coalition received a contract under the U.S. Army’s XM1155 program to develop and advance the Ramjet 155 projectile. In May 2021, the group was awarded a Phase II technology advancement contract.

Ramjet 155 employs an engine where the air taken in for combustion is compressed solely by the forward movement of the projectile at supersonic speeds. Regarded as a hybrid between guided artillery and missiles, the initiative aims for a standardized round design that can be utilized in L39 and L58 cannons.

The team continues to foster the development and enhancement of the technology, with additional testing and demonstrations scheduled for the coming months.