First test flight for next-gen missile interceptor

POINT MAGU NAVAL AIR STATION, Calif., June 8 (UPI) -- The next-generation variant of Raytheon's Standard Missile-3 interceptor has completed its first flight test at a U.S. Navy sea range.

The test by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency was to evaluate the SM-3 Block IIA's nosecone performance, steering control section function, booster separation, and second- and third-stage rocket motor separation.

No intercept was planned, and no target missile was launched in the test.

"The SM-3 Block IIA program reflects the MDA's commitment to maturing this capability for the defense of our nation, deployed forces, and our allies abroad," said Dr. Taylor W. Lawrence, Raytheon Missile Systems president. "The success of this test keeps the program on track for a 2018 deployment at sea and ashore."

The SM-3 Block IIA features larger rocket motors and a more capable kill vehicle to engage threats sooner and protect larger regions from short- to intermediate-range ballistic missiles. More than 200 SM-3s have been delivered to date. The Block I variant is scheduled for deployment ashore in Romania and at sea this year, while Block I is on track for land and sea deployment in 2018.

The SM-3 Cooperative Development project is the joint U.S.-Japan development of a 21-inch diameter variant of the SM-3 missile, which is part of the U.S. Ballistic Missile Defense program.