49.55 (-0.91) Last updated: 01/24/2012*
Raytheon Delivers 100th Standard Missile-3 Block IA to Missile Defense Agency
In a significant production milestone, Raytheon recently delivered the 100th Standard Missile-3 Block IA to the Missile Defense Agency. The SM-3 Block IA was initially fielded in 2006 and is the third variant of SM-3. In 2008, Raytheon modified an SM-3 Block IA to destroy a failed satellite in space in what was known as Operation Burnt Frost.
“SM-3 Block IA is a proven, mature system protecting the U.S. and its allies today, and Raytheon continues to deliver this national asset ahead of schedule and below cost,” said Frank Wyatt, vice president of Raytheon's Air & Missile Defense Systems product line. “This milestone is further proof of Raytheon's commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable missile defense solutions to the MDA and warfighters around the world.”
Raytheon's next-generation SM-3 Block IB will incorporate a throttleable divert and attitude control system and guidance and sensor upgrades to improve performance against advanced threats while maintaining the reliability of the Block IA.
“Raytheon's ability to successfully combine low-cost, high-rate missile manufacturing with spacecraft precision and quality control enables the company to provide this proven capability to the warfighter,” Wyatt said. “Raytheon also has the ability to build four missiles per month and plans to support customer direction and funding for higher-rate production.”
Raytheon Missile Systems is developing SM-3 as part of the Missile Defense Agency’s (MDA) sea-based Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System. The missiles are deployed on U.S. Aegis cruisers and destroyers and Japanese destroyers to defend against short- to intermediate-range ballistic missile threats in the ascent and midcourse phases of flight. Raytheon leads the integrated team effort, which includes Alliant Techsystems, Aerojet and The Boeing Company.
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