Raytheon, Japan Achieve Full-Rate Production of SM-3 Block IIA Missile

Raytheon has entered full-rate production for the Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IIA.

This marks the first cooperative development program between the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and Japan.

The full-rate production follows a $1.9 billion award from the MDA in July 2024 for the production of missiles for both the U.S. government and the Japan Ministry of Defense. The SM-3 Block IIA features larger rocket motors and an enhanced kinetic warhead, enabling the missile to engage threats more rapidly and protect larger areas from short- to intermediate-range ballistic missile threats.

Production will occur at Raytheon facilities in Tucson, Arizona, and Huntsville, Alabama, with an expected completion date set for February 2031.

The SM-3 Block IIA interceptor incorporates two key improvements: larger rocket motors for broader area defense and a larger kinetic warhead. The enhanced warhead improves search, discrimination, acquisition, and tracking functions to counter advanced and emerging threats.

The SM-3 IIA intercepted an advanced ballistic missile threat during its first live target test in early 2017, following two non-target flight tests. The system also participated in a NATO-led exercise in 2019 that simulated real-life threat scenarios. This collaboration among allied nations and industry supports readiness against complex global threats.

The Block IIA variant is central to the European missile defense system and will be deployed ashore in Poland as part of Phase 3 of the European Phased Adaptive Approach.