Raytheon gets $235M for SM-6 missile production

The U.S. Navy has contracted Raytheon to produce and deliver Standard Missile-6 all-up round missiles and spares.

Raytheon will begin deliveries under the $235 million contract in 2018.

The missiles will be deployed on Aegis cruisers and destroyers to support U.S. Navy fleet operations.

Raytheon noted that the award funds the fourth year of full-rate production for the multi-mission missile.

The contracted missiles will include an anti-surface capability, which was demonstrated in early 2016 during a successful tactical demonstration event off the coast of Kauai. The SM-6 also set a new record for maximum down-range and maximum cross-range intercepts in over-the-horizon missions.

“The SM-6 offers three missions, making it the most affordable missile per defended area and threat set,” said Mike Campisi, Standard Missile-6 senior program director. “The SM-6 effector continues to perform beyond expectations and beyond its original mission.”

The SM-6 deployed for the first time in 2013, and Raytheon said it has delivered approximately 250 missiles so far.