News

Standard Missile-3 intercepts ballistic missile target during Japanese test at sea

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the United States Missile Defense Agency (MDA) have completed a successful intercept flight test in cooperation with the US Navy off the coast of Kauai in Hawaii.

A Raytheon SM-3 Block IB missile intercepted a ballistic missile target, marking the first time Japan has tested the sophisticated interceptor as announced by MDA.

The target missile was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Hawaii, and the interceptor was launched from the Japanese ship JS Atago (DDG-177), verifying the newest ballistic missile defense engagement capability of the upgraded destroyer.

The flight test mission is a significant milestone in missile defence cooperation between Japan and the US, underlining underlines international cooperation between the two nations. Japan currently employs the SM-3 Block IA interceptor, but the IB variant’s improved two-colour seeker and upgraded throttling divert and attitude control system enables engagements with a larger set of threats.

Dr. Taylor W. Lawrence, Raytheon Missile Systems President, said: “The Standard Missile-3 family consistently demonstrates capability against sophisticated threats, both on land and at sea. This test underlines the importance of allied ballistic missile defense interoperability and the powerful results we generate when we work together with our allies.”

If you would like to join our community and read more articles like this then please click here.

The post Standard Missile-3 intercepts ballistic missile target during Japanese test at sea appeared first on Defence Online.

 

Who are we?

From publishing the first national directory of public sector contracts, to being the first to market with our online Tracker solution, we have been the true pioneers of technology and innovation in the public sector marketplace. Throughout our 39 years, we have continued to evolve and chart new territory – placing our customers at the heart of everything we do. Take your business to the next level with Tracker now.

Start Your Free Trial Today

Download your Free UK Defence Industry Report

Download your Free UK Defence Industry Report

When you sign up for a 3 day free trial or demo.

Limited time only