Japanese Sea Test: Standard Missile-3 Successfully Takes Down Ballistic Threat

Successful Intercept Flight Test by Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and U.S. Missile Defense Agency

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, in collaboration with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, has successfully conducted an intercept flight test off the coast of Kauai, Hawaii. During this mission, a Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) SM-3® Block IB missile effectively intercepted a ballistic missile target. This marks a historic achievement as it’s the first time Japan has tested this advanced interceptor, as confirmed by the Missile Defense Agency.

The target missile was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Hawaii, while the interceptor was fired from the Japanese destroyer JS Atago (DDG-177). This mission validates the upgraded ballistic missile defense capabilities of the JS Atago and represents a significant milestone in Japan-U.S. missile defense cooperation. Notably, Japan currently utilizes the SM-3 Block IA interceptor, but the new Block IB variant offers enhanced features, including a two-color seeker and an advanced throttling divert and attitude control system, allowing it to confront a wider range of threats.

Dr. Taylor W. Lawrence, president of Raytheon Missile Systems, stated, “The Standard Missile-3 family consistently demonstrates capability against sophisticated threats, both on land and at sea. This test highlights the critical nature of allied ballistic missile defense interoperability and the extraordinary outcomes we achieve when collaborating with partners.”

The SM-3 missiles are manufactured at Raytheon’s Space Factory in Tucson, Arizona, and are integrated at the company’s facility in Huntsville, Alabama.