SM-2 missile production continues

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TUCSON, Dec. 20 (UPI) -- Raytheon will continue producing Standard Missile-2 all-up rounds, the majority of which will be for U.S. allies, under a U.S. Navy contract worth $108 million.

SM-2 missile is deployed by the United States and eight allied navies. It provides high- and low-altitude target intercept and has been integrated with both Aegis and non-Aegis combat weapon systems. It has a range of 90-200 nautical miles, depending on the model.

"The U.S. Navy has committed to supporting SM-2 past 2035 and this contract award reflects our international partners' desire to maintain this key defensive asset in their inventories," said Michael Campisi, Raytheon Missile Systems' senior director for SM-2 and SM-6 production.

"The SM-2 production line is open for all our allies' requirements, and there will be full mission support available throughout the life cycle of this critical asset.

"SM-2 has been the primary surface-to-air fleet-air defense weapon of choice for decades. It's an extremely effective, relevant weapon that will continue to protect navies around the globe for many years to come."