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
-
![UK MoD faces ‘serious’ ASW gap as Defence Committee outlines Arctic requirements]()
UK MoD faces ‘serious’ ASW gap as Defence Committee outlines Arctic requirements
Anti-submarine warfare, uncrewed vessels and seabed monitoring top the demand list in the Defence Committee’s High North roadmap for the 2030s.
-
![Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders]()
Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders
Turkish shipbuilders have sold ships from Asia to Europe, but autonomy and swarm technology could give them a fairer fight against Western European rivals.
-
![Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq]()
Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq
The Canadian Department of National Defence is evaluating communications and reconnaissance changes for CCGS Imnaryuaq’s expanded maritime security role, while retaining its 2032 acceptance target.
-
![All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids]()
All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids
Responses are due by 29 October as the Royal Navy tests the market, with BAE Systems’ Herne and MSubs’ Excalibur setting up a contest where payloads may decide the winner.
