Raytheon to produce SM-2 missiles for U.S. and foreign sales

TUCSON, Ariz., 19 Dec. 2012. Raytheon (NYSE: RTN) has been awarded a $108 million contract from the U.S. Navy for continued production of Standard Missile-2 (SM-2) all-up rounds, most of which will be sold to U.S. allies through foreign military sales. This award brings the total fiscal year 2011 contract value to more than $200 million.

The SM-2 is a fleet-area air defense weapon, designed to protect against a variety of threats. The missile has been integrated with different weapon systems, including the Aegis combat weapon system. Compatible with the MK-41, MK-13, and MK-26 launchers, the SM-2 has had more than 2,500 flight tests. The most advanced variant, the SM-2 Block IV, has successfully intercepted and destroyed short-range ballistic missile targets.

The SM-2 also has a secondary anti-surface ship mission, and it uses tail controls and a solid-fuel rocket motor for propulsion and maneuverability.

SM-2 is deployed by the U.S. and eight allied navies. The missile provides high- and low-altitude intercept capabilities and performance against advanced anti-ship missile threats.