RTX Raytheon to Supply Certified Components for SM-3 Missile-Defense Interceptor with Infrared Seeker
Date: February 24, 2025
The Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) is a Navy interceptor engineered to destroy ballistic missiles ranging from short to intermediate distances. The SM-3 Block 1B features an advanced two-color infrared seeker along with enhanced steering and propulsion capabilities to target incoming threats.
Based in Huntsville, Alabama, experts from RTX Corp. have been awarded a contract valued at $99 million to provide parts for the RIM-161 SM-3 Block 1B. This initiative aims to support the missiles’ efficacy in acquiring, tracking, and neutralizing incoming ballistic missiles.
The U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has directed RTX Raytheon, located in Tucson, Arizona, to source, manufacture, assemble, and test components based on the SM-3 Block 1B specifications.
Hit-to-Kill Technology
The SM-3 serves as a hit-to-kill ballistic missile defense interceptor, using a kill vehicle designed to collide with the incoming target during its mid-course flight in space. This high-energy impact effectively neutralizes the ballistic missile and its warheads without the need for explosives, equating to the force of a 10-ton truck traveling at 600 miles per hour.
Missiles can be launched from ground-based installations or Navy Aegis destroyers and cruisers. The SM-3 Block 1B’s infrared seeker and refined propulsion mechanisms allow for precise targeting of threats in real-time.
Expanded Capabilities with SM-3 Block IIA
The subsequent SM-3 Block IIA, developed in collaboration with Japan, boasts larger rocket motors to extend its range and area of coverage against ballistic missile threats, in addition to a larger kinetic warhead.
Under the recent contract, RTX Raytheon is expected to complete the assembly by March 2026. For additional information, visit RTX Raytheon’s website at www.rtx.com/raytheon or refer to the MDA at www.mda.mil.
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About the Author: John Keller, Editor-in-Chief of Military & Aerospace Electronics Magazine, delivering in-depth analysis on electronics in military, space, and commercial aviation sectors since 1989.
