First SM-2 from restarted production line tested
The first SM-2 surface-to-air missile from Raytheon’s restarted production line has been tested by the company and the US Navy.
During the test, the SM-2 Block IIIB missile launched, flew and provided accurate telemetry data to the range, and engaged an airborne navy target.
SM-2 is designed to enable navies to defend against anti-ship missiles and aircraft.
The production line was restarted in June 2017 to meet global demand. The programme invested in new equipment and improved manufacturing processes to increase efficiencies.
Mitch Stevison, Raytheon strategic and naval systems vice president, said: ‘The SM-2 is in high demand because of its advanced capabilities and history of more than 2,700 successful flight tests from US Navy and international ships. Navies worldwide have relied on this missile and it will continue to provide fleet protection for decades to come.’
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy testing mid-ocean missile restocking system in case of conflict with China]()
US Navy testing mid-ocean missile restocking system in case of conflict with China
US Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro has revealed plans to mitigate the difficulties of a war in the western Pacific.
-
![US Navy contracts X-Bow to boost rocket motor manufacture]()
US Navy contracts X-Bow to boost rocket motor manufacture
The US has been battling hard to keep up with demand for solid rocket motors (SRMs).
-
![Indian Navy contracts Kongsberg to provide equipment for for its Fleet Support Ships]()
Indian Navy contracts Kongsberg to provide equipment for for its Fleet Support Ships
Kongsberg Maritime will give the Indian Navy’s future FSS fleet new replenishment options to boost the range of the navy’s vessels.
-
![Type 23 Duke-class frigate HMS St Albans completes mid-life refit]()
Type 23 Duke-class frigate HMS St Albans completes mid-life refit
HMS St Albans’ refit included an update in FOST training to help staff adapt to new technology and routines.
-
![Royal Navy sails autonomous RIB in UK waters for the first time]()
Royal Navy sails autonomous RIB in UK waters for the first time
The RIB trials are expected to inform rapid future RN deployment of autonomous vessel technology.
