Sm-3 Rim-161 Aegis Bmd

[David]

RIM-161 SM-3 (AEGIS Ballistic Missile Defense)


Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) is being developed as part of the US Navy’s sea-based ballistic missile defense system and will provide theater-wide defense against medium and long range ballistic missiles. In 1992, the Terrier LEAP (Lightweight Exo-Atmospheric Projectile) demonstration program culminated in four flight tests and demonstrated the feasibility of theater-wide ballistic missile defense. This program evolved into today’s SM-3 development program which is based on the SM-2 Block IV airframe and propulsion stack, but incorporates a Third Stage Rocket Motor, a GPS/INS Guidance Section and the SM-3 Kinetic Warhead.
The United States Navy and the Missile Defense Agency are developing Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) as part of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System that will provide allied forces and U.S. protection from short to intermediate range ballistic missiles. The SM-3 Kinetic Warhead (KW) is designed to intercept an incoming ballistic missile outside the earth’s atmosphere. SM-3 is under development by Raytheon at its Missile Systems business unit in Tucson, Arizona. Configuration


The Aegis BMDS builds upon the Strategic Defense Initiative Organization/Ballistic Missile Defense Organization (SDIO/ BMDO) investment in Lightweight ExoAtmospheric Projectile (LEAP) technology and the Navy’s Aegis weapon system including Standard Missile and MK41 Vertical Launching System currently deployed on many U.S. Navy and international surface combatants.
The SM-3 KW is a highly modular, compact, space tested kinetic warhead designed to defend against short to intermediate range ballistic missile attacks. Raytheon has engineered two prior generations of LEAP designs starting in 1985 under contracts with SDIO and BMDO. This third generation LEAP design integrates the teamed experience of Raytheon and Boeing in KW designs and Alliant Techsystems’ expertise in Solid Divert and Attitude Control. The SM-3 KW design features a large aperture wide field of view long wave infrared seeker that provides acquisition ranges greater than 300 km against typical ballistic missile threats. Seeker pointing and intercept guidance are supported by a production IFOG Inertial Measurement Unit and wooden round simplicity of the SDACS propulsion providing over 2 miles of terminal divert capability. The KW includes a fully encrypted data downlink capability for full engineering evaluation of KW performance and to support rapid kill assessment.
The SM-3 evolves from the proven SM-2 Block IV design. SM-3 uses the same booster and dual thrust rocket motor as the Block IV missile for the first and second stages and the same steering control section and midcourse missile guidance for maneuvering in the atmosphere. To support the extended range of an exo-atmospheric intercept, additional missile thrust is provided in a new third stage for the SM-3 missile, containing a dual pulse rocket motor for the early exo-atmospheric phase of flight and a Lightweight Exo-Atmospheric Projectile (LEAP) Kinetic Warhead (KW) for the intercept phase. Upon second stage separation, the first pulse burn of the Third Stage Rocket Motor (TSRM) provides the axial thrust to maintain the missile’s trajectory into the exo-atmosphere. Upon entering the exo-atmosphere, the third stage coasts. The TSRM’s attitude control system maneuvers the third stage to eject the nosecone, exposing the KW’s Infrared (IR) seeker. If the third stage requires a course correction for an intercept, the rocket motor begins the second pulse burn. Upon completion of the second pulse burn, the IR seeker is calibrated and the KW ejects. The KW possesses its own attitude control system and guidance commands are acted upon by a solid divert propulsion system. The IR seeker acquires the target. Tracking information is continuously transmitted to the guidance assembly which controls the divert propulsion system.
Discrimination algorithms enable defense systems to compare objects in a target scene to determine which to intercept. Increasingly complex threats with separated target elements, countermeasures, and debris, require advanced signal processing and discrimination algorithms to identify object features needed to provide robust target selection. SM-3 has flown and demonstrated fundamental discrimination capability for unitary threats.
Computer program design upgrades are in work to expand the current selection accuracy and add capability against more stressing unitary and separating target scenes using target features observed by the Aegis radar system and the KW LWIR seeker to optimize selection confidence. Leveraging off discrimination architecture used across Raytheon’s missile programs, SM-3 continues to evolve an integrated discrimination design for insertion with the current seeker design and each of the sensing and signal processor upgrades available to counter advancing threats. Raytheon is working closely with the Navy to ensure that SM-3, based on legacy Standard tactical missile designs, stands ready to provide immediate emergency Aegis BMD capability against preponderant threats. The SM-3 Block I KW configuration features a single color LWIR seeker, a solid DACS propulsion, target identification and discrimination, and lethal intercept accuracy.

RIM-161 SM-3 Flight Test Program


In FY03, two intercept attempts of a unitary target in its ascent phase were conducted. In the first test, the Aegis BMD element successfully intercepted the target. Using a newly designed divert system onboard the SM-3 missile, the Aegis BMD failed to intercept the target in the second FY03 test. The cause of the failed intercept has been attributed to a malfunction in a divert valve in the attitude control system onboard the kinetic warhead. Testing continued based on the consistent performance of the sustained pulse mode, while mitigation options were evaluated.
In FY03, the operational robustness of the Aegis BMD Block 2004 test program was enhanced by increased operational realism in the test strategy. Efforts to add operational realism as part of the developmental test strategy provide significant risk reduction in advance of operational testing and potential deployment of the element. The planned growth in flight test realism is consistent with the maturity of the system. Although the Block 2004 flight test plan included many operationally realistic aspects, some important operational scenarios remain untested by the end of the Block 2004 test program. These include multiple simultaneous engagements and separating targets. Development and integration of critical technologies pertaining to threat discrimination (e.g., AWS discrimination logic, radar and infrared seeker upgrades) and missile propulsion (e.g., kinetic warhead divert system, SM-3 booster propulsion) could improve operational capability as they are introduced in Block 2004 and subsequent upgrades.

1. Aegis BMD testbed initiated a series of increasingly complex missions to evaluate SM-3 design capability while the program prepares for potential emergency tactical availability. The first mission of this test series, Flight Mission Four (FM-4), was flown on 21 November 2002 resulting in a third consecutive successful intercept for the program. Flight Mission-4 (FM-4) involved the firing of a developmental Standard Missile 3 (SM-3) from the Aegis ballistic missile defense cruiser USS Lake Erie to engage a ballistic missile target launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) on the island of Kauai, Hawaii. The missile's kinetic warhead acquired, tracked and diverted into the target, demonstrating the Aegis BMD system's capability to engage the ballistic missile target in the ascent phase. This mission demonstrated the ship’s crew and system response times necessary to track, engage, and intercept a ballistic missile target early in flight during its ascent phase (prior to apogee). FM-4 also provided a key verification of SM-3’s capability to accurately hit the target at a predefined point for lethality which, for this test, was forward of the target center. The KW impacted within centimeters of the aimpoint, completely destroying the target avionics section.
2. FM-5 on 18 June 2003 failed in an attempt to intercept its target. A developmental Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) was launched from the U.S. Navy cruiser, USS Lake Erie (CG-70), in a Missile Defense Agency test near Kauai, Hawaii. The main mission of Aegis ballistic missile defense Flight Mission-5 (FM-5) was to evaluate the SM-3 kinetic warhead's guidance, navigation and control operation in space using an upgraded solid divert and attitude control system (SDACS). The mock warhead deployed, but the intercept did not occur as expected. The primary objective of this test is to evaluate the SM-3 kinetic warhead's guidance, navigation and control operation in space using an upgraded solid divert and attitude control system (SDACS). FM-5 was the second of a planned six flight test series within the missile defense Block 2004 time period to develop a sea based ballistic missile defense against short to intermediate range ballistic missiles. FM-5 is the second developmental flight test against more complex, stressing, and operationally realistic ballistic missile engagement scenarios.
3. On 11 December 2003 Flight Mission-6 (FM-6) involved the detection and tracking of an Aries medium-range target missile launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), Kauai, Hawaii at 8:10am HST (1:10pm EST). FM-6 was the third of planned six flight test series within the missile defense Block 2004 time period. Approximately two minutes after target launch, a developmental Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) was launched from the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense cruiser the USS LAKE ERIE (CG 70). Approximately two minutes later the SM-3 successfully intercepted the target missile with hit to kill technology, using only the force of the direct collision to destroy the target. This was the fourth successful intercept for Aegis BMD and SM-3. Between January 2002 and late 2004, the Aegis BMD system had successfully intercepted targets in space four times with SM-3. In all the flight tests, the SM-3 was launched from a US Navy cruiser under increasingly realistic, operational conditions.
4. On 24 February 2005 the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) Weapon System and Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) destroyed a ballistic missile outside the earth's atmosphere during an Aegis BMD Program flight test over the Pacific Ocean. The Feb. 24 mission -- the fifth successful intercept for SM-3 -- was the first firing of the Aegis BMD "Emergency Deployment" capability using operational versions of the SM-3 Block I missile and Aegis BMD Weapon System. This was also the first test to exercise SM-3's third stage rocket motor (TSRM) single-pulse mode. The TSRM has two pulses, which can be ignited independently, providing expansion of the ballistic missile engagement battlespace. The SM-3 was launched from the Aegis BMD cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) and hit a target missile that had been launched from the U.S. Navy's Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai, Hawaii. FM-7 was the fourth of a planned six flight test series within the missile defense Block 2004 time period, was scheduled for the 3rd quarter of FY2003 as of February 2002.
5. On 17 November 2005 a test involved for the first time a "separating" target, meaning that the target warhead separated from its booster rocket requiring the interceptor to distinguish between the body of the missile and the actual warhead. The interceptor missile was launched from the Pearl Harbor-based Aegis cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70). The target was intercepted more than 100 miles in space above the Pacific Ocean and 375 miles northwest of Kauai. FM-8 the fifth of a planned six flight test series within the missile defense Block 2004 time period, scheduled for the 1st quarter of FY2004 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was scheduled for the 2nd quarter of FY2005.
6. A Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) was launched on March 8, 2006 from the USS Lake Erie (CG 70) in a Missile Defense Agency and Japan Defense Agency joint test in the Pacific. The Joint Control Test Vehicle-1 (JCTV-1) cooperative test demonstrated the SM-3 with a Japan-designed advanced nosecone. The flight test, a milestone in a joint cooperative research project, is an example of the ongoing coordination between the U.S. and Japan on missile defense efforts. FM-9 was the sixth of a planned six flight test series within the missile defense Block 2004 time period, scheduled for the 2nd quarter of FY2004 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was scheduled for the 3rd quarter of FY2005.
7. The 22 June 2006 test involved the launch of a Standard Missile 3 (SM-3 Block IA) from the USS Shiloh, an Aegis-class cruiser, modified to perform the ballistic missile defense mission, and a hit to kill intercept of a ”separating” target, meaning that the target warhead separated from its booster rocket. It was the seventh successful intercept test involving the sea-based component of the nation’s ballistic missile defense system in eight attempts. The missile successfully intercepted the target warhead outside the earth’s atmosphere more than 100 miles above the Pacific Ocean and 250 miles northwest of Kauai. FM-10 was scheduled for the 3rd quarter of FY2004 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was scheduled for the 4th quarter of FY2005.
8. FTM-11 Event 4 on 7 December 2006 was a no-test, resulting in a re-schedule. The planned sea-based missile intercept test scheduled for today by the Missile Defense Agency and the U.S. Navy was not completed due to an incorrect system setting aboard the Aegis-class cruiser USS Lake Erie which prevented the fire control system aboard the ship from launching the first of the two interceptor missiles. FM-11 was scheduled for the 1st quarter of FY2005 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was scheduled for the 2nd quarter of FY2006. FTM-11 was completed 26 April 2007 by the Aegis BMD cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70). FTM-11 was the 4th Objective flight test to verify BMD 3.6 engagement capability with a near simultaneous multiple engagement and intercept of one low exo-atmospheric Group A (SRBM) target using an SM-3 Block IA missile, and a BQM-74 aerial target using an SM-2 Block IIIA missile. Conducted FTM-12 flight test to verify BMD 3.6 engagement capability with an intercept of a Group B (MRBM) target with an Integrated Reactive Lethality Payload (IRLP) using an SM-3 Block IA missile. The SM-3 intercept occurred approximately 100 miles above the Pacific Ocean and 250 miles northwest of Kauai.
9. Flight Test Standard Missile -12 (FTM-12) on 22 June 2007 marked the ninth successful intercept in eleven flight tests for the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense Program. FM-12 was scheduled for the 2nd quarter of FY2005 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was scheduled for the 4th quarter of FY2006. The test involved a “separating” target, meaning that the target warhead separated from its booster rocket. The USS Decatur (DDG 73), using the operationally-certified Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense Weapon System (BMD 3.6) and the Standard Missile – 3 (SM-3) Block IA missile successfully intercepted the target during its midcourse phase of flight. The USS Decatur’s crew launched the SM-3, and two minutes later the missile successfully intercepted the target warhead outside the earth’s atmosphere more than 100 miles above the Pacific Ocean and 250 miles northwest of Kauai. FTM-12 flight test verified BMD 3.6 engagement capability with an intercept of a Group B target using an SM-3 Block IA missile.
10. Flight Test Standard Missile-13 (FTM-13) on 06 November 2007 marked the tenth and eleventh successful intercepts, of thirteen targets in twelve scheduled flight tests for the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense Program. FM-13 was scheduled for the 3rd quarter of FY2005 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was scheduled for the 2nd quarter of FY2007. The mission was completed by the cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70), using the tactically certified 3.6 Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense shipboard weapon system and the Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IA interceptor. At approximately 6:12 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time (11:12 p.m. EST), a target was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), Barking Sands, Kauai, Hawaii. Moments later, a second, identical target was launched from the PMRF. The USS Lake Erie’s Aegis BMD Weapon System detected and tracked the targets and developed fire control solutions. Approximately two minutes later, the USS Lake Erie’s crew fired two SM-3 missiles, and two minutes later they successfully intercepted the targets outside the earth’s atmosphere more than 100 miles above the Pacific Ocean and 250 miles northwest of Kauai.
11. The JFTM-1 test event on 18 December 2007 verified the new engagement capability of the Aegis BMD configuration of the recently upgraded Japanese destroyer, JS KONGO (DDG-173). At approximately 12:05 pm (HST), 7:05 am Tokyo time on Dec. 18, 2007, a ballistic missile target was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, Kauai, Hawaii. JS KONGO crew members detected and tracked the target. The Aegis Weapon System then developed a fire control solution and at approximately 12:08 pm (HST), 7:08 am Tokyo time, a Standard Missile -3 (SM-3) Block IA was launched. Approximately 3 minutes later, the SM-3 successfully intercepted the target approximately 100 miles above the Pacific Ocean. FTM-1 was the first time that a Japanese ship was designated to launch the interceptor missile.
12. FTM-14 BX09 3Q FY 2008 • Launch on TADIL (LOT) engagement og group F Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile target. FM-14 was scheduled for the 4th quarter of FY2005 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was scheduled for the 4th quarter of FY2007, or the 2nd quarter of FY2008 [this may be a typo].
13. FTM-15 BX09 2Q FY 2009 • Conduct a Launch on TADIL (Aegis to Aegis) flight test against a Group F target. FM-15 was scheduled for the 1st quarter of FY2006 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was scheduled for the 3rd quarter of FY2008.
14. FTM-16 EX09 4Q FY 2010 • 1st flight test of SM-3 Block IB missile against a group B Medium range Ballistic Missile target. FM-16 was scheduled for the 2nd quarter of FY2006 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was scheduled for the 2nd quarter of FY2009.
15. FTM-17 EX09 3Q FY 2011 • BMD 4.0.1 engagement with SM-3 Block IB against a group c target. FM-17 was scheduled for the 3rd quarter of FY2006 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was scheduled for the 3rd quarter of FY2009.
16. FTM-18 EX09 3Q FY 2012 • BMD 4.0.1 engagement against a group C target with an SM-3 Block IB missile. FM-18 was scheduled for the 4th quarter of FY2006 as of February 2002. By February 2004 this test was possibly no longer scheduled.
17. FTM-19 EX09 3Q FY 2013 • BMD 5.0 engagement against a group C target with an SM-3 Block IB missile.

RIM-161 SM-3 Upgrades

In 2004 the Pentagon decided to embark on the development, in fiscal 2007, of an enhanced version of the Standard Missile 3 interceptor. There are three primary differences between the Block IA and IB interceptors. The Block IB will provide a two-color seeker (not the one-color seeker employed on the SM-3 Block IA) and a Throttleable Divert and Attitude Control System (TDACS). It will also include the Advanced Signal Processor to improve the ability of the seeker to distinguish between threat RVs and countermeasures. These improvements will expand the battle space and allow for detection, acquisition and intercepts against more diverse and longer-range threats up to Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missiles (IRBMs).
Missile Upgrades for the SM-3 Block IB include improvements to the kinetic warhead's seeker and Divert and Attitude Control System (DACS). Seeker improvements will include the introduction of seeker All-Reflective-Optics (ARO) to improve optics performance, and a Kinetic Warhead Advanced Signal Processor (ASP) to mitigate diminished manufacturing source issues in SM-3 Block IA missiles. Additionally, the increased processing capability of the ASP will support new discrimination algorithms. The optics and processing improvements will enhance the Aegis BMD contribution to the BMDS missions by providing greater sensitivity and seeker discrimination capability. Other missile improvements include the integration of a two-color seeker and development of the Throttleable Divert and Attitude Control System (TDACS). These enhancements will be tested and verified for the SM-3 Block IB configuration.
The continued design and testing of the SM-3 Block IB components remains the focus of Block 5.0. MDA completed the design efforts for the Advanced Signal Processor and continued development of the TDACS and testing of the twocolor seeker. Additionally, MDA verified, via C2BMC Spiral 6.2, the ability to downselect and forward tracks to Aegis BMD ships for cueing the AN/SPY-1 radar. This is the first step in enabling the SM-3 Launch on Remote ESGs. The primary focus in FY08 will be the successful completion of the Critical Design Review with the goal of completing the design and testing for the two-color seeker and TDACS and commencing the element integration of the SM-3 Block IB missile in FY 09. The AN/TPY-2 radar has been delivered to VAFB in order to conduct verification testing and integration of discrimination algorithms, and testing against Targets of Opportunity flights from VAFB. In FY 08, this radar along with critical C2BMC interfaces will be sent to Juneau, Alaska to participate in a GMD system-level flight test (FTG-04) and then returned to VAFB for further testing.
The SM-3 Block I interceptors will be upgraded with the SM-3 Block IIA, developed in cooperation with Japan, to significantly extend the battle space and allow engagement of long-range ballistic missiles. In 2006, the United States and Japan signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the co-development of an upgraded, 21-inch diameter SM-3 missile (SM-3 Block IIA). Under the SM-3 Cooperative Development project, the United States and Japan are equitably sharing cost to develop and flight test a missile that will include a significant increase in velocity and range provided by a 21-inch diameter rocket motor, and increased seeker sensitivity and divert capability incorporated in an advanced kinetic warhead. In FY 07, MDA initiated the first phase of the three-phase project and completed a System Concept Review for the SM-3 Block IIA interceptor. Concurrent with design of the interceptor MDA will implement upgrades to the Aegis Weapons System to accommodate the Block IIA missile. In FY 08 and 09, we will conduct the Systems Requirement Review and the System Design Review, with the first flight test initially scheduled for late FY 12.
Synopsis HQ0276-08-C-0001 was an update to the presolicitation notice issued by the Naval Sea Systems Command under solicitation number N0002407R6016 on March 15, 2007. This effort is a part of the AEGIS Ballistic Missile Defense (AB) Program and requires continued development, test and production efforts necessary to support test and production schedules of the SM-3 Block IA, Block IB, and Block IIA Cooperative Development (SCD) missile configurations. In addition to the previously synopsized effort for continued systems engineering support, the Missile Defense Agency intends to award a sole source effort to Raytheon Missile Systems of Tucson, Arizona, for the Unitary Kill Vehicle (UKV) and Multiple Kill Vehicle (MKV) development for the Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Program. The purpose is to develop the UKV and MKV payload systems and integrate the payloads with the SM-3 Block IIA missile in the Ballistic Missile Defense Architecture and develop, within the context of a dual source (Lockheed Martin being the other source) risk reduction effort, concepts for adapting the SM-3 payload design to larger booster candidates such as the Orbital Boost Vehicle and the Kinetic Energy Interceptor booster.
This is a collaborative effort between the MKV, KEI, GMD and AB Program elements to ensure the UKV and MKV payloads are developed to a common architecture with common components where applicable. The contractor will continue to provide the necessary engineering services and material for systems engineering, design and development support, fabrication, test equipment support, ground and flight test support, documentation support and assistance in the transition to production for the SM-3 program. Additionally, within the dual source construct, Raytheon may provide like services and materials to the Missile Defense Agency in support of the GMD and KEI program elements.
Raytheon Missiles Systems has been the All Up Round Design Agent for all Standard Missile variants since 1966. This contractor is a highly specialized source and only a limited number of other suppliers or services will satisfy agency requirements. As a result of Raytheon Missile Systems involvement in the Aegis BMD Program, it is the only other source that currently possesses the in-depth technical knowledge of the system requirements to satisfactorily perform the work contemplated herein. No other source, other than Lockheed Martin, has access to the proprietary data, resident expertise, and resources to perform the work described herein, nor will any other supplier or service satisfy MDA requirements. This expertise cannot be attained by any other contractor within the anticipated period of performance without incurring substantial costs. The estimated value of this entire effort is 1.4B dollars and the anticipated period of performance is for 5 years after contract award.


RIM-161 SM-3 Deployment


In mid-2002, the Missile Defense Agency indicated that it hoped to deploy sea-based defensive missiles as early as 2004. A Navy study prepared in late 2000 estimated that it would cost $5 billion to equip five or six Aegis destroyers with the system. The sea-based interceptors are scheduled for deployment in 2005. The Navy developed a plan to deploy a limited system of 50 SM-3 interceptor missiles aboard two AEGIS cruisers. The system could be operational by 2004 or 2005 at an estimated cost of at least $1.2 billion. The system would also require a large and sophisticated radar system deployed on another ship [possibly a cargo ship] to provide tracking support.
The Sea- based Midcourse Defense (SMD) element of the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) will provide the capability for US Navy Surface Combatants to intercept and destroy Medium Range to Inter-Continental Ballistic Missiles (ICBM) in the midcourse ascent phase of the exoatmospheric battlespace while forward deployed or on Fleet Missile Defense Patrol in defense of the nation, deployed U. S. forces, friends, and allies. The SMD element built upon the existing Aegis Weapons System (AWS) and the Standard Missile (SM) infrastructure. The SMD element objectives include: 1) continue testing and complete the Navy Aegis Light- weight ExoAtmospheric Projectile (LEAP) Intercept (ALI) Flight Demonstration Project (FDP) to demonstrate that LEAP technologies can be successfully integrated with the Navy’s Standard Missile and the AWS; 2) design and develop a Block 2004 ship- based component to be integrated with BMDS test bed; and, 3) initiate, in FY 2002, a Block 2006, 2008, 2010 sea- based midcourse capability against Intermediate Range Ballistic Missiles (IRBMs) and ICBMs in concert with the Missile Defense National Team efforts as defined by the concept definition.
To fulfill the sea-based portion of the initial missile defense capabilities, the MDA is developing Aegis BMD in close coordination with the Navy and Naval Sea Systems Command. Aegis BMD Block 2004 consists of two major contributions to BMDS. The first contribution is Aegis DDG-51 Class Destroyers equipped for Long Range Surveillance and Track (LRS&T). LRS&T provides a capability to detect and track LRBMs and to report the track data to the BMDS. This capability assists in the sharing of tracking data to cue other BMDS sensors and provides fire control support to engagement elements. LRS&T is the first Aegis BMD delivery and is part of the Initial Defensive Operations (IDO), which went on alert in 2004.
The second contribution is Aegis CG-47 Class Cruisers equipped with the LRS&T capability, but also armed with the new SM-3, capable of intercepting short and medium range ballistic missile threats in the midcourse phase of flight. By 2005, full Aegis BMD Block 2004 functionality will be implemented in the first set of Aegis Cruisers. In the future, Aegis BMD capability will evolve to defeat longer range ballistic missiles.
Raytheon delivered five SM-3 operational rounds to the Missile Defense Agency in 2004. The program is transitioning to production, with Kinetic Warhead seeker and final integration occurring in Raytheon's state-of-the-art Kill Vehicle manufacturing facility, alongside the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle. Final assembly and test occur in Camden, AK. As part of the initial deployment of the BMDS, five Pacific Fleet Aegis Destroyers had operational LRS&T upgrades installed by the end of 2004.
In October 2004 Raytheon Company began delivering STANDARD Missile-3 (SM-3) initial deployment rounds to the Missile Defense Agency. SM-3 is a key element of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System and builds on the existing fleet of Aegis cruisers and destroyers. This is a critical milestone for Raytheon and for the country. These deployment rounds move the US Navy one step closer to providing a sea-based defense against short- to intermediate-range ballistic missile threats. The delivery of SM-3 supports the administration's commitment to provide a sea-based missile defense capability.
Aegis BMD went to sea on 30 September 2004, able to track an ICBM and to communicate that information to the Ballistic Missile Defense System. The Navy added firepower to Aegis BMD with the SM-3 missile. It is able to participate in the defense of not only the US, but of allies, friends and deployed troops against short-medium range ballistic missiles around the globe. Because naval forces are inherently mobile and capable of multiple missions, Aegis BMD will provide a broad array of options to operational commanders responding to a wide variety of dynamic world situations.
There were a total of 15 LRS&T Aegis Destroyers and 3 Aegis BMD engagement Cruisers by the end of CY 06. Both Aegis and other variants of the Standard Missile were on over fifty Aegis cruisers and destroyers, with twenty-nine more in the production pipeline.
As of January 2008 it was planned that Aegis BMD will deliver the following:

• Fifteen (15) Aegis Destroyers equipped with the Aegis BMD Weapon System to conduct the LRS&T and engagement missions
• Three (3) Aegis Cruisers equipped with the Aegis BMD Weapon System to conduct the LRS&T and engagement missions SM-3
• Eleven (11) SM-3 Block I missiles
• One (1) “Pathfinder” SM-3 Block IA Flight Test Round (FTR)
• One (1) “Pathfinder” SM-3 Block IB Flight Test Round (FTR)
• Eighty two (82) SM-3 Block IA missiles
• Fifty two (52) SM-3 Block IB missiles

As of January 2008 it was planned that Aegis BMD will deliver the following RDT&E Articles:

• FY09 - BMD 4.0.1 Testbed computer program (1), one (1) BMD 4.0.1 Cruiser (EDM).
• FY10 - Nine (9) SM-3 Block IA missiles, one (1) Pathfinder SM-3 Block IB missile, upgraded EDM of BMD 4.0.1 computer program with BSP (1).
• FY11 - Fourteen (14) SM-3 Block IA missiles, Eighteen (18) SM-3 Block IB missiles, one (1) BMD 4.0.1 CG with BSP.
• FY12 - Twenty-one (21) SM-3 Block IB missiles, two (2) BMD 4.0.1 DDGs with BSP.
• FY13 - Thirteen (13) SM-3 Block IB missiles, two (2) BMD 4.0.1 DDGs with BSP, two (2) BMD 5.0 (Open Architecture) DDGs.

RIM-161 SM-3 Japan Maritime Self Defense Force Deployment

Japan has been engaged in a ballistic missile defense dialogue with the United States since 1987 when the two countries signed an Agreement Concerning Japanese Participation in Research for the Strategic Defense Initiative. Since 1987, BMDO sponsored two joint industry studies, which recommended a two-tiered TMD architecture.
In December 1993, a U.S.-Japan TMD Working Group (TMD WG) was created under the Security Sub Committee, Security Consultative Committee (SSC-SCC) to provide a forum for regular discussion of TMD and TMD-related matters such as regional political implications and treaty compliance. In October 1994, a Government of Japanled U.S.-Japan Bilateral Study on Ballistic Missile Defense was initiated; the study provided extensive simulation and systems analysis to identify and evaluate various missile defense alternative architectures. The results identified and evaluated specific Japanese TMD-related technologies associated with the U.S. Navy Theater Wide TBMD program and their related capabilities that would enhance U.S. TMD systems development.
Geography is the predominant factor to be considered in designing the architecture requirements and options for defense of Japan. There is a sea barrier of about 1,000 km between most of Japan and North Korea. To traverse this distance, a TBM launched against Japan must travel a substantial part of the way exo-atmospherically. The extended period of flight that the North Korean TBMs spend in the exo-atmosphere provides upper tier TBMD systems ample engagement opportunities (shoot-look-shoot coverage in many defended areas) and deployment flexibility (ships can be positioned for either ascent, midcourse or descent phase defense).
The 2000 "Report to Congress on Theater Missile Defense Architecture Options for the Asia-Pacific Region" concluded "For a NTW Block I-like system, four ship positions would provide nearly complete coverage of Japan with substantial shoot-look-shoot opportunities over much of Japanese territory. With the faster missile and better kill vehicle typical of the NTW Block II-like system, which would allow expansion of the engagement volume, an even more efficient deployment would be possible. One ship position is sufficient to provide full national coverage. The interceptor speed would allow this system to provide a shoot-look-shoot engagements over the central portion of the country."
The Department of Defense signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Japan Defense Agency in 1999 to conduct cooperative research to enhance the capabilities of the Standard Missile-3. The focus of research was on four components: sensor, advanced kinetic warhead, second stage propulsion, and lightweight nosecone.
In December 2003, through a formal Cabinet Decision, the Government of Japan became the first ally to decide to proceed with the acquisition of a multi-layered BMD system, basing its initial capability on upgrades of its Aegis Destroyers and acquisition of the SM-3 missile. The two nations began the research program in 1999 for a system to launch interceptors from Aegis destroyers. Japan has spent 15.6 billion yen up to fiscal 2003. The AEGIS Weapon System and Standard missiles will be used on JMSDF ships and will provide, in concert with JSDF PAC-3 Patriot missiles, the initial ballistic missile defense for mainland Japan. Japan already has the upgraded AEGIS Weapon System and SM-3 Block IA Standard missiles in its inventory and will have no difficulty absorbing the additional upgraded Weapon System and missiles.
On 5 May 2004, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Japan of SM-3 Block 1A Standard Missiles as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $725 million. The Government of Japan has requested a possible sale of nine SM-3 Block 1A Standard missiles with MK 21 Mod 2 canisters, Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) upgrades to one AEGIS Weapon System, AEGIS BMD Vertical Launch System ORDALTs, containers, spare and repair parts, supply support, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance and other related elements of logistics support. Japan will use the Standard missiles to update older or less reliable missiles currently in the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) fleet. The AEGIS Weapon System and Standard missiles will be used on JMSDF ships. The purchaser, who already has missiles in its inventory, will have no difficulty absorbing these additional missiles.
On 29 June 2005, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Japan of nine SM-3 Block IA Standard missiles with MK 21 Mod 2 canisters, as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $387 million. The Government of Japan has requested a possible sale of nine SM-3 Block IA Standard missiles with MK 21 Mod 2 canisters, Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) upgrades to one AEGIS Weapon System, AEGIS BMD Vertical Launch System ORDALTs, containers, spare and repair parts, publications, documentation, supply support, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $387 million. Under SDF-Law, there is a rigid procedure to officially respond to BMs coming to Japan. The procedure may need so much time that Japan cannot intercept the coming BMs, timely. Therefore, there was a need to submit a necessary amendment bill for more speedy decision to shoot against BMs. Diet revised SDF Law in July 2005 allows the Defense Minister to “respond to incoming missiles or other objects” without prior approval of the PM or Diet in an “emergency case.”
The first Aegis BMD installation in the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force was scheduled for the fall of 2007. In addition, Japan will upgrade their Patriot units with PAC-3 missiles and improved ground support equipment. The US has worked closely with Japan since 1999 to design and develop advanced components for the SM-3 missile. This project would culminate in flight tests of SM-3 variant missiles in 2005 and 2006. The US worked with Japan to test the engagement performance of the SM-3 nosecone developed in the U.S./Japan Cooperative Research project.
The Japan Cooperative project flight tested a jointly-developed component (lightweight nosecone) on a Standard Missile-3 on on 18 December 2007 (Joint Control Test Vehicle (JCTV)- 1 and Joint Flight Mission (JFM)- 1). To assure midcourse segment BMDS meet the capability specifications across the full range of midcourse engagements, the program will conduct a structured concept definition effort leading to re-allocation of system capabilities among ground-based and sea-based products to achieve the best integrated segment performance at the lowest overall cost.