Raytheon Standard Missile-6 Completes Key Developmental Test

WHITE SANDS, N.M., Aug. 28, 2009 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company's (NYSE: RTN - News) Standard Missile-6 has completed tests which validate the extended-range anti-air warfare missile's airframe and autopilot performance.
By performing a series of preprogrammed maneuvers, the SM-6 missile was pushed to the limits of its performance, allowing the U.S. Navy to gather vital simulation validation data.
"The technology that was proven in this test will provide the Navy with the weapon system it needs for outer and area defense to defeat current and future missile threats," said Louis Moncada, Raytheon Missile Systems' director of the SM-6 program. "This control test vehicle launch is the fourth test of the SM-6 following two guided test vehicle launches in 2008 and the recent advanced area defense interceptor test in May."
SM-6 takes full advantage of the legacy Standard Missile airframe and propulsion elements, while incorporating advanced signal processing and guidance control capabilities of Raytheon's Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile. This merger of these two proven technologies allows SM-6 to use both active and semiactive modes.
"The SM-6 program remains on budget and on schedule," said Kirk Johnson, the Navy's Standard Missile program director. "The weapon system provides advanced capabilities across the entire threat spectrum. The SM-6 will greatly enhance our fleet defense."
Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.