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L3Harris Plays Key Role in Successful Missile Defense Test
December 16, 2024 | L3Harris TechnologiesEstimated reading time: 1 minute
L3Harris Technologies provided the Medium Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM) target and propulsion for the Standard Missile-3 Block IIA (SM-3 Blk IIA) used in the Missile Defense Agency’s (MDA) latest successful test aimed at strengthening U.S. missile defense.
The Aegis Guam System, integrated with the new AN/TPY-6 radar and Vertical Launching System, fired an SM-3 Blk IIA, which intercepted an air-launched MRBM target off the coast of Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, during Flight Experiment Mission-02.
“Our team’s high-fidelity mobile-launch target and propulsion systems helped enable MDA’s successful test of the SM-3 and other capabilities critical for the defense of Guam,” said Ross Niebergall, President, Aerojet Rocketdyne, L3Harris. “The MRBM target and SM-3 propulsion systems contribute to streamlined operations in remote locations worldwide, essential to highly effective missile defense system testing.”
L3Harris designed, manufactured and launched the MRBM Type 1 target for the recent test. The company also provided integrated logistics support, including inventory storage and maintenance, pre- and post-mission analysis, launch preparation, launch execution and engineering services for the test.
The U.S. Navy uses the SM-3 Blk IIA as a defensive weapon to defeat short- and intermediate-range ballistic missile threats. It is an integral part of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System on certain Navy cruisers and destroyers.
L3Harris’ Mk 72 solid rocket boost motors provide the first stage propulsion for SM-3 Blk IIA to safely launch the interceptors, while the company’s Throttling Divert and Attitude Control System helps maneuver the system’s kinetic warhead into the target for the final hit-to-kill impact.
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