In a significant move aimed at bolstering naval defense capabilities in the face of growing Chinese military presence, the United States is preparing to equip its destroyers with the anti-ship variant of the Tomahawk long-range cruise missile. This deployment is projected to occur by late September 2025, as confirmed by Chip Whipkey, the Tomahawk deputy program manager.
The Maritime Strike Tomahawk (MST)
The Maritime Strike Tomahawk (MST) missile, designed explicitly for targeting maritime threats, will soon enhance the U.S. Navy’s operational capabilities. Whipkey highlighted that the initial operational capability for the MST is planned for the end of fiscal year 2025, which spans from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. This development is crucial for countering China’s expansive naval capabilities, as the Chinese navy possesses the world’s largest fleet by hull count, allowing Beijing significant military reach.
The U.S. Navy intends to acquire up to 1,302 of these advanced missiles, underscoring their importance in strategic planning. According to reports, the potential for using the MST on U.S. Navy submarines also exists, with deployment at sea expected as tests progress.
Why the Tomahawk Matters
The Tomahawk missile is a standout weapon in modern warfare due to its range and precision. Capable of hitting targets from up to 1,000 miles away, Tomahawk missiles have been employed over 2,350 times by U.S. and allied forces in various combat scenarios. The ability to strike precisely from considerable distances makes the Tomahawk a critical asset in the U.S. military arsenal.
As military tensions heighten in the Pacific region, particularly with China’s naval expansion, equipping destroyers with the MST will provide the U.S. with an enhanced deterrent. Arming allied forces in the western Pacific with anti-ship missiles further strengthens collective defense strategies.
Variants of Tomahawk Missiles
The Tomahawk missile family includes two primary variants in service: Block IV and Block V. Both variants are designed for land-attack operations, with Block V serving as an upgraded version of Block IV featuring enhanced navigation and communication systems.
The MST, referred to as Block Va, will build on the capabilities of Block IV and is set to become a pivotal part of the U.S. Navy’s operational repertoire. The introduction of Block Vb, a sister variant, is also anticipated, which will be capable of striking a wider array of land targets.
Previous tests have demonstrated the Tomahawk’s remarkable capabilities. In 2015, a Block IV variant successfully hit a moving maritime target, showcasing the missile’s ability to engage dynamic threats at sea.
Expert Insights
According to the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command, Tomahawk missiles are designed to fly at low altitudes at high subsonic speeds, employing multiple guidance systems for enhanced precision. Raytheon, the missile’s manufacturer, emphasizes its versatility, allowing launches from surface ships, submarines, and ground launchers, effectively striking targets even in densely defended airspace.
What Lies Ahead
As the U.S. Navy prepares for the deployment of the MST, questions remain about which warships will first receive the new missile systems. The forward-deployed U.S. destroyers in the western Pacific, particularly those stationed in Japan, are likely candidates to be among the first to integrate this advanced capability.
The introduction of the Maritime Strike Tomahawk represents a pivotal shift in naval warfare and underscores the increasing emphasis on naval defense amidst global military complexities. With its precision strike capabilities and extended range, the MST is set to play a crucial role in maintaining maritime security and deterring potential adversaries in the ever-evolving geopolitical landscape.