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The mission evaluated the SM-3 Block IIA's kinetic
warhead and divert and attitude control system functionality, in addition
to nosecone performance, steering control section function, booster
separation, and second and third stage rocket motor separation.
"The SM-3 Block IIA program continues to reflect the MDA's commitment
to maturing this capability for the defense of our nation, deployed
forces, and our allies abroad," said Dr. Taylor W. Lawrence, Raytheon
Missile Systems president. "The success of this test keeps the
program on track for deployment at sea and ashore in the 2018 timeframe."
The interceptor's more capable kill vehicle searches, discriminates,
acquires, and tracks the threat before maneuvering to collide with the
target. It simultaneously provides kill assessment data back to the
ship. The sophisticated kill vehicle, along with larger rocket motors,
allows SM-3 Block IIA to engage threats sooner and protect larger regions
from short- to intermediate-range ballistic missile threats.
The next live-fire test of the SM-3 Block IIA is planned in 2016. The
missile will be fired from a U.S. Navy warship, and the test is planned
to include an intercept of a ballistic missile target.
About the Standard Missile-3
SM-3s destroy incoming ballistic missile threats in space using nothing
more than sheer impact equivalent to a 10-ton truck traveling at 600
mph.
More than 230 SM-3s have been delivered to date.
SM-3 Block IB is deployed at sea and will be deployed ashore by end
of 2015 in Romania.
SM-3 Block IIA is on track for deployment at sea and ashore in 2018
timeframe.
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