SM-2 missile launch from USN vessel. (Photo: USN)
The USN is exercising an option in its Standard Missile-2 (SM-2) Block IIIC contract with Raytheon Missiles and Defense, the DoD announced on 7 July.
Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) awarded the US defence company a $45.09 million contract modification for FY2021 LRIP production of the missile.
SM-2 Block IIIC features an active radar seeker and is expected to be deployed by the USN surface fleet by October 2022.
Besides production for the USN, overseas customers have shown interest in the missile. Shephard Defence Insight notes that Canada could order SM-2 Block IIIC under a $500 million FMS package approved by the State Department in November 2020.
Additionally, Australia is starting to invest in developing the SM-2 Block IIIC under Project Sea 1300.
Recent developments in France and the UK highlight how autonomous helicopters are becoming central to naval force design as navies seek to integrate crewed and uncrewed systems at sea.
The platforms will be tested in multiple missions to define performance requirements for a coming acquisition programme.
As HII prepares to deliver its latest AI-enabled uncrewed surface vessel later this year, its major UK facility expansion aligns with the UK Royal Navy’s plans for a hybrid fleet.
The UK, the US and Australia have all been working on “extra-large” uncrewed underwater vehicles, but China’s reported development of a significantly larger capability demonstrates the country’s rapid advancement in underwater warfare.
The first Arctic Security Cutter will be built by Rauma Marine Constructions to be deployed in the US Arctic waters.
The effort to provide the US Navy with Trump-class battleships might face financial, production and doctrinal obstacles.
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