Stennis First with New ESSM

>A RIM-162D-1 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile is fired from the aircraft carrier USS Stennis. (US Navy photo)USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea --- USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) claimed the first successful hit and kill with the Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) during a Combat System Ship's Qualification Trials (CSSQT) off the coast of Southern California Oct. 7.>> Stennis' Tactical Action Officer Ens. Clay Cunningham said, "This is the first successful ESSM kill from an aircraft carrier.">> Combat systems department launched the new missiles, the RIM-162 D-1, during a live-fire exercise by engaging drones inbound to Stennis.>> "The evaluation team from Port Hueneme [California] said Stennis' combat systems team performed at the top of the fleet," said Combat Systems Officer Cmdr. Greg Gaskey.>> The ESSM has advantages in range, agility and advanced technology over the RIM-7.>> A short-range missile, the ESSM is designed to provide self defense for surface ships. The new missile is launched from the existing NATO Sea Sparrow Launcher.>> -ends->