Raytheon systems support complex international ballistic missile defence exercise

A Raytheon-built Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) intercepted a medium-range ballistic missile target at sea as part of a multinational operational NATO-led exercise, “Formidable Shield 17,” off the coast of Scotland. This integrated air and missile defence exercise simulated real-life threat scenarios. Supported by the US Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and US Navy, it was designed to evaluate the ability of allied navies’ ballistic missile and air warfare defences to work together quickly and effectively to defeat incoming threats.

In addition to the SM-3 intercept, SM-2 and Evolved SEASPARROW missiles conducted simulated target engagements of cruise missiles.

“Real-world events demand real-world testing,” Dr. Taylor W. Lawrence, Raytheon Missile Systems President, said. “Strong cooperation between allied nations and industry helps ensure we are ready to defeat complex threats around the world.”

Raytheon’s innovative and trusted solutions are designed to protect the United States and its allies from ever-advancing threats. Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom and the US were among the NATO nations that participated in “Formidable Shield.” The exercise built upon a previous “At Sea Demonstration” in 2015, with a focus on real-world operations.

The SM-3 interceptor is deployed at sea as part of the US contribution to Europe’s ballistic missile defence. The first land-based SM-3 site became fully operational in Romania in 2016, and the Poland site is expected to be in service next year.

DPM