Japan requests SM-3 Block IB missiles
The US State Department has made a determination approving a potential foreign military sale of Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IB missiles to Japan, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced on 9 April.
In a package worth $1.15 billion, Japan has requested up to 56 SM-3 Block IB missiles. Also included are missile canisters and related elements of logistics and programme support.
The SM-3 Block IB will provide Japan with increased ballistic missile defence capability.
If the sale goes ahead, the prime contractor for the SM-3 Block IB all-up rounds will be Raytheon Missile Systems and BAE Systems will be the prime contractor for the canisters.
More from Naval Warfare
-
DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
-
Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.
-
Royal Canadian Navy will start operating class 2 UAVs in 2028
Acquired under Canada’s Department of National Defence ISTAR UAS project, the drones will be deployed from the Halifax-class frigates.
-
Newest US Coast Guard cutters go after Chinese vessels sailing in the Arctic
Cutters Earl Cunningham and Storis have been monitoring five Beijing research vessels navigating in the North Pole.
-
US Navy selects 25 companies for up to $1.9 billion nuclear submarine contract
The multi-award contract will support the scheduled repair and maintenance of nuclear-powered attack submarines at the US Navy’s primary public shipyards.