SM-3 Block IIA Co-Development Test

Abstract

The Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (Aegis BMD) mission is to deliver an enduring, operationally effective and supportable Ballistic Missile Defense capability to defend the nation, deployed forces, friends and allies, and to increase this capability by delivering evolutionary improvements as part of Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) upgrades. Aegis BMD provides a forward-deployable, mobile capability to detect and track Ballistic Missiles of all ranges, and the ability to destroy Short-Range Ballistic Missiles (SRBM), Medium-Range Ballistic Missiles (MRBM), and Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missiles (IRBM) in the midcourse phase of flight. Upgrades to both the Aegis BMD Weapon System and the SM-3 configurations evolve Aegis BMD to provide effective, supportable defensive capability against more difficult threats. Beginning in 2006, Aegis BMD and the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMOD) have undertaken an SM-3 Cooperative Development (SCD) program, which consists of an upgrade of the SM-3 Blk IB missile to a 21-inch diameter SM-3 missile (SM-3 Blk IIA). The objective of the SCD project is the development and initial at-sea flight test of the SM-3 Blk IIA missile. Key technology improvements planned for the SM-3 Blk IIA missile include an increase in velocity and an increase in range provided by a 21-inch diameter rocket motor propulsion stack, more than doubled seeker sensitivity and more than three times divert capability incorporated in an advanced kinetic warhead. Key component technologies to be developed include, but are not limited to: lightweight nosecone, advanced kinetic warhead, 21-inch second stage rocket motor, and 21-inch third stage rocket motor. The U.S. and Japan will equitably share work. Proving Missile Defense: Working with the Services` Operational Test Agencies (OTA), with the support of the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E), MDA has developed a test program to improve confidence in missile defense capabilities under development and ensure the capabilities transferred to the war fighter are operationally effective, suitable, and survivable. The Integrated Master Test Plan (IMTP) is event-oriented and extends until the collection of all identified data is completed to ensure adequate test investments. The bottom line is that MDA is focused on conducting meaningful ballistic missile testing that demonstrates the capabilities of the BMDS.

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2013
• Source ID: MT09_0604881C_4_0400_PB_2013

Tags

Readers

• Missile Defense Systems.