“Aegis Combat System: Mastering the Challenge of Hypersonic Threats”
Lockheed Martin is committed to pioneering advancements in technology to improve future deterrence strategies
The USS Pinckney (DDG 91) successfully performed Flight Test Other 40 (FTX-40), commonly referred to as Stellar Banshee, utilizing Lockheed Martin’s Aegis Combat System to identify, monitor and engage a live advanced hypersonic Medium Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM) target with a simulated SM-6 Block IAU.
FTX-40, supported by the Missile Defense Agency, United States Navy, Lockheed Martin, and corporate collaborators, evaluated an authentic hypersonic scenario, exhibiting various functionalities. Stellar Banshee introduced an innovative target and simulated missile, marking the effective utilization of the latest Aegis software in a virtualized setup for a Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) Flight Test operation.
The Hypersonic Spotlight
“Our Aegis Combat System effectively countered a simulated hypersonic threat,” stated Chandra Marshall, vice president of Multi-Domain Combat Solutions at Lockheed Martin. “Aegis Baseline 9’s hypersonic defense capability against an MRBM target delivers extraordinary potential, enabling our personnel to detect unseen threats faster, ensuring our sailors confront hazards swiftly.”
The successful examination also accentuates the Aegis Combat System’s ability to adjust to the ever-changing defense landscape. With both maritime and terrestrial configurations, Aegis illustrates the adaptability and scalability of the system, establishing it as a fundamental element of missile defense.
Consistent Proven Capability
Lockheed Martin is at the forefront of innovation, integration, and support for ongoing flight evaluations with the Missile Defense Agency, U.S. Navy, and industry collaborators, shaping the future of Aegis technology. The FTX-40 simulated engagement previews prospective Aegis live-fire interception missions and marks the third test for the Capability Package 24 / Ballistic Missile Defense 5.1.5 system, encompassing the Sea-Based Terminal Increment 3.
In the previous year, industry and government teams successfully accomplished FTX-23, also known as Stellar Sisyphus, showcasing a two-phase developmental test of sensor-tracking and communications-link capabilities. The teams successfully intercepted an MRBM target utilizing the SM-6 Dual II Software Upgrade interceptor missile in FTM-32.
For further details, visit our site: www.lockheedmartin.com/aegis.
