SM-3 Block IIA completes second flight test
The US Navy and Missile Defense Agency (MDA) have successfully conducted the second flight test of Raytheon’s Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IIA, the company announced on 8 December.
An SM-3 Block IIA was launched from an MK 41 launcher during the Controlled Test Vehicle-02 flight test at the navy’s Point Mugu Sea Range on Saint Nicolas Island, California.
The missile did not intercept a target; the aim of the test was to evaluate the SM-3 Block IIA's kinetic warhead and divert and attitude control system functionality, along with steering control section function, nosecone performance, booster separation, and second and third stage rocket motor separation.
The interceptor's kill vehicle searches, acquires, discriminates and tracks threats and then manoeuvres to engage. It also simultaneously provides kill assessment data back to the ship. The advance kill vehicle and larger rocket motors allow the SM-3 Block IIA to detect threats faster and protect larger regions from short- to intermediate-range ballistic missile threats.
The SM-3 Block IIA’s next live-fire test is scheduled in 2016 and will include an intercept of a ballistic missile target, with the missile be fired from a naval warship.
Taylor Lawrence, president, Raytheon Missile Systems, said: ‘The SM-3 Block IIA programme continues to reflect the MDA's commitment to maturing this capability for the defence of our nation, deployed forces, and our allies abroad. The success of this test keeps the programme on track for deployment at sea and ashore in the 2018 timeframe.’
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy solicits Raytheon and Lockheed for carrier-suitable hypersonic weapon]()
US Navy solicits Raytheon and Lockheed for carrier-suitable hypersonic weapon
The USN has awarded two contracts to Raytheon Missiles and Defence and Lockheed Martin for initial development of a carrier-suitable long-range, high-speed weapon known as Hypersonic Air Launched Offensive Anti-Surface (HALO).
-
![Italian Navy secures funds for two new FREMMs amid push for a bigger fleet]()
Italian Navy secures funds for two new FREMMs amid push for a bigger fleet
Italy plans to procure two more FREMM frigates as part of a push to strengthen its naval capabilities amid an increased Russian presence in the Mediterranean.
-
![Singapore selects Saab and ST Engineering for Multi-Role Combat Vessel]()
Singapore selects Saab and ST Engineering for Multi-Role Combat Vessel
Singapore is proceeding with a new class of warship to replace its Victory-class corvettes.
-
![Cairo adds more American ships to its fleet]()
Cairo adds more American ships to its fleet
The Egyptian Navy recently has taken delivery of three former USN Cyclone-class patrol coastal ships.
-
![Keel laid for Brazil's MEKO-based Tamandaré frigate]()
Keel laid for Brazil's MEKO-based Tamandaré frigate
Tamandaré is the first of our ships being acquired under the Brazilian programme, which will be built in blocks.
