US Navy tests SM-6 Blk IA
The US Navy has carried out testing of the Standard Missile-6 Block IA (SM-6 Blk IA) at the White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, the navy announced on 15 June.
This test demonstrated SM-6 Blk IA's improved capabilities and integration with the Aegis weapon system.
The event was the third of three required flight tests successfully executed at the range. At-sea testing of the missile is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2017.
The SM-6 Blk IA is a surface-to-air missile designed for over-the-horizon engagement when launched from an Aegis warship. Initial operational capability for SM-6 Blk IA is planned for the end of 2018.
John Keegan, Program Executive Office for Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS) major program manager for surface ship weapons, said: ‘This final land test is a critical milestone which demonstrates Blk IA's improved capability. I am very proud of the entire test team for their extensive planning and technical rigor that went into execution of this event.’
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