Raytheon has conducted the fourth guided vehicle test flight of the Standard Missile-6, clearing the way for the missile’s at-sea testing this year. The new missile will enhance naval platforms operating the Standard family of missile with enhanced over-the-horizon engagement capability.
Introducing state-of-the-art signal and guidance control capabilities derived from the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM), Raytheon’s SM-6 is remains compatible with existing Standard Missile family airframe and propulsion elements. The merger of these two proven technologies allows SM-6 to use both active and semi-active modes.
“The last year has been very important for SM-6,” said Frank Wyatt, Raytheon’s vice president of Naval Weapon Systems. “We demonstrated integrated fire control, concluded the land-based test flights and entered low rate initial production. Importantly, SM-6 continues to be on time and on budget and is now ready for sea.” “All GTV engineering test objectives were met, demonstrating the SM-6’s capabilities in this critical engagement,” said Wyatt. “With its over-the-horizon protection, SM-6 will provide the surface Navy with an increased battlespace against anti-air warfare threats. We now move forward with initial operational capability flights of this extended-range AAW system.”
