Malaysia-based Contraves Advanced Devices Sdn. Bhd has awarded Raytheon an initial
contract to for the production and supply of components for the Evolved Sea Sparrow
Missile (ESSM). Selection of ESSM for the SGPV program would significantly enhance the capabilities of
the Royal Malaysian Navy and provide for interoperability with the U.S. Navy and with the
Australian, Japanese and Canadian navies in the Pacific theatre. ESSM is the world's most advanced ship self-defense and local area defense surface-to-air
missile system. The missile is employed by the U.S. Navy and 11 allied nations. Raytheon
has also issued requests for quotation to Malaysian industry for additional components for
the ESSM, the MK56 ESSM vertical launching system, MK73 illuminator, and test equipment
in support of the Malaysian SGPV program as well as other international production
programs.