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SM-6 Missile
Context:
- The US SM-6 missiles are in the spotlight again after photos surfaced of a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet carrying what appears to be an air-launched variant of the SM-6 missile.
- These images are believed to show an inert Standard Missile 6 (SM-6).
- The unusual sight of an SM-6 on a Super Hornet has drawn significant attention.
Details:
SM-6 Missile Features:
Multi-Mission Capability:
- The SM-6 missile is the only weapon that can perform three primary roles: anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, and ballistic missile defense or sea-based terminal missions.
Naval Advancement:
- Developed by Raytheon Company, it's a breakthrough in missile technology.
- It uniquely combining multiple capabilities into a single weapon.
- It offers increased flexibility for navies operating within limited ship space.
- It contributes to the enhanced offensive capabilities of surface forces for the U.S. and its allies.
Sophisticated Warfare Applications:
- Anti-Air Warfare: Effectively engages manned and unmanned aircraft attacks and cruise missiles.
- Ballistic Missile Defense: Protects ships against ballistic missiles during their final flight phase.
- Anti-Surface Warfare: Demonstrated capability to strike surface targets from any ship or location. Thus it supports the Navy’s sea control objectives.
Additional Features:
- Extended-Range Active Missile (ERAM):
- Utilizes advanced signal processing and guidance technologies from the AMRAAM (Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile).
- Employs semi-active homing and active homing guidance for accurate target engagement.
- Impressive Range:
- Surface-to-air published range of 240 km, with estimated ranges reaching up to 463 km.