Japan’s Strategic Shield: Unveiling the Power of Raytheon’s Advanced SM-3 Missile Systems
During a showcase near the shores of Kauai, Hawaii, Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force successfully intercepted short and medium-range ballistic missile targets utilizing SM-3® Block IB and SM-3 Block IIA interceptors, both produced by Raytheon Missiles & Defense, a part of Raytheon Technologies.
This marks the initial occasion a non-U.S. naval service has successfully intercepted targets using both types of interceptors, as well as the first instance of a Japanese vessel deploying the SM-3 Block IIA. The event was conducted collaboratively with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA).
“This demonstration underscores that partners now possess enhanced capabilities with the Standard Missile family of interceptors,” stated Tay Fitzgerald, President of Strategic Missile Defense at Raytheon Missiles & Defense.
“Allied forces utilizing the SM-3 can now engage more comprehensively with the United States regarding ballistic missile defense operations,” she emphasized.
The multi-day Japan Flight Test Aegis Weapon System-07 involved engagements of ballistic missile targets using SM-3, along with a next-generation subsonic aerial target employing SM-2 Block IIIB.
In alignment with the U.S.-Japan SM-3 Block IIA Cooperative Development (SCD) Project, Japanese industry and Raytheon Missiles & Defense collaboratively designed and manufactured the SM-3 Block IIA variant, which stands as the globe’s leading sea-land ballistic missile defense interceptor.
Unlike previous SM-3 models, the Block IIA features larger rocket motors and enhanced kill vehicle capabilities, enabling significantly extended range and performance against sophisticated missile threats.
Raytheon Missiles & Defense provides international clients with the most advanced end-to-end solutions, delivering the competitive edge of a single innovative partner capable of detecting, tracking, and intercepting threats.
With an extensive portfolio of air and missile defense systems, precision weaponry, radars, command and control systems, and cutting-edge defense technologies, Raytheon Missiles & Defense solutions safeguard citizens, military personnel, and infrastructure in over fifty countries worldwide.
