highsea

Heh, I guess you didn't read my link. Now this came out first in Indian media. If it wasn't true, the IN would certainly have issued a statement denying the report.
And as per the link I posted, the contract for the Ka-31's is expired- you do understand that these are not "one size fits all" agreements, right? I have read the news reports. There is no mention of a renewal of the contract for the Ka-31 maintenance.

Trust me, when the issues are resolved, we will hear about it.

__________________
My baby called me up. She said- Why don't you ever take me out? Pick me up in your brand new car....You shake the short change from the old fruit jar...

sukhoi

The Indian Navy is Increasing its Fleet very Well But still having some Minus Points.
- First of all, It needs to Have a Damm Freaking AESA radar for Its Aircrafts. An AESA radar will increase the IN Fighter Aircrafts Capability of Engage Anti-Ship Missiles.

- Having an AWACS for the AC. The Kamov-31 may play a very Good Role but still it cannot give the Advantages of an AWACS gives. The most successful aircraft carrier based AWACS platform is represented by Northrop Grumman E-2C ‘Hawkeye and Inducting the Hawk AWACS is not any problem has it was Already Proposed to Indian Navy.
The Only Problem with that the Hawkeye 2000 was not compatible with ski-jumps, which would be not be Suitable for the ADS Carriers which are Building in Indian ShipYards.But Still the Indian Navy would do well to redesign the flight-deck of its 40,500-tons Indigenous Aircraft Carrier under construction at Cochin Shipyard Limited , Kochi to incorporate a Conventional Take-Off Landing (CTOL) capability with steam catapults.

- Another Main Thing is that better go for some F-35s they were Proposed by the US, during Aero India 2005 the Company had depicted F-35 models in IAF colours as a promotional measure .
Rather then Opting for MiG-29Ks Just go for some Damm JSF aircrafts for the ADS Aircraft Carrier. The JSF STOVL version is looking Superb and Suitable for IN, the Indian aircraft carriers utilise the “ski-jump” that forms an integral part of the STOBAR operations. The Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) version of the F-35B being developed for United States Marine Corps (USMC) can utilise the ski-jump for take-off and would be more suitable for the Indian Navy. The JSF will give True Fight Generation Capabilities for IN which can simply Hard to resists.

I Just Wish to See JSF Lightinings in Indian Colours

Anon

Wrong. Harpoon has more than twice that range.

Ah, so then the IN has to restrict it's operations to those within range of land based aircover. Well then, that does sort of defeat the purpose of the Indian carriers to begin with...

Not until your ships start sinking i guess...

highsea

Sukhoi, you might find this helpful.

Assessment of the impact of the P-3 on IN operations in the Arabian Sea by Commodore RS Vasan IN (Retd):

http://www.saag.org/papers13/paper1235.html

kams

[quote=highsea;285465]
highsea I did read it. However it quotes an anonymous IN official hence I stated that there was no official announcement by IN. I would say that its a leak from an 'officer of IN'. Sorry if I appear to be splitting the hair, thats not the intention nor do I suspect the report.

Again, I am not saying that the report is not true. I agree with you in that In would have issued a denial if that was the case (A case of Dog which did not bark).

I beg to differ on this issue. From the second link I posted on Rosobonservices,

IN will sign the contracts with Rosoboronservices, not Kamov.


Coming to the KA-31, the problems listed are extremely serious. I would think, with that kind of problems, CEMILAC would have revoked the air-worthiness certificate of the aircraft.

With KA-31 grounded, IN is in serious trouble from PN Orions.

highsea

Yes, and Rosonboro India would then sign contracts with Kamov, since the JV is acting as the agent for the IN. As of yet, this does not appear to have happened (it would make the news). An MOU is not a service contract, it is just a statement of intent.

Intentions don't fix broken helicopters.

No doubt this is a pretty high priority, and if they were really needed they would probably fly regardless. It just seems odd that there hasn't been a peep over the past 6 months about sorting things out with Kamov.

kams

Highsea,

A followup on status of KA-31 of IN. The following news report may be of interest to you.

Rosoboronservice

Master Chief

This is very true, was there at the time. We had a missile on the rail ready to go, but they got the go and was the air picket ship.The are many types of missile systems some good some bad. Now in the early 80's some of you might of heard that Sea-Dart could not hit low level targets. These are the bugs in the system, that were worked out. Here is a list of CIWS systems and then I will add the missile systems.


The Kashtan Air Defence Gun/Missile Systemis intended to provide self-defence for surface ships against high precision weapons (anti-ship and anti-radar missiles, air bombs), fixed and rotary wing aircraft, as well as to engage small sea and coastal targets. The system is developed as a modular structure comprising a command module and combat modules (from one to six, depending on ship displacement). The command module ensures IFF procedures, target acquisition and designation and data generation for gun/missile fire. The combat module comprises of a gun/missile mount, a radar and optical control systems, a computing system and power supply system. The integrated multi-channel control system provides simultaneous multi-target tracking in the radar and TV-optical modes.

The firing turret mounts two blocks of GSh-30K six-barrel automatic guns with linkless feeding system and autonomous evaporation-type cooling system and two SAM clusters. The system also includes storing and reloading system to keep 32 SAMs in container-launchers in ship's under-deck spaces. Reloading time for a cluster of four SAMs does not exceed 1.5 min. The Kashtan system can be installed on ships with displacement greater than 400 tonnes.




The MK 15 Phalanx Close-In Weapons System (CIWS - pronounced "sea-whiz") is a fast-reaction, rapid-fire 20-millimeter gun system that provides US Navy ships with a terminal defense against anti-ship missiles that have penetrated other fleet defenses. Designed to engage anti-ship cruise missiles and fixed-wing aircraft at short range, Phalanx automatically engages functions usually performed by separate, independent systems such as search, detection, threat evaluation, acquisition, track, firing, target destruction, kill assessment and cease fire. Phalanx underwent operational tests and evaluation onboard USS Bigelow in 1977, and exceeded maintenance and reliability specifications. Phalanx production started in 1978 with orders for 23 USN and 14 Foreign Military Sales (FMS) systems.

Phalanx is a point-defense, total-weapon system consisting of two 20mm gun mounts that provide a terminal defense against incoming air targets. CIWS, without assistance from other shipboard systems, will automatically engage incoming anti-ship missiles and high-speed, low-level aircraft that have penetrated the ship primary defense envelope. As a unitized system, CIWS automatically performs search, detecting, tracking, threat evaluation, firing, and kill assessments of targets while providing for manual override. Each gun mount houses a fire control assembly and a gun subsystem. The fire control assembly is composed of a search radar for surveillance and detection of hostile targets and a track radar for aiming the gun while tracking a target. The unique closed-loop fire control system that tracks both the incoming target and the stream of outgoing projectiles gives CIWS the capability to correct its aim to hit fast-moving targets, including ASMs. The intent is to destroy the warhead on incoming missile. As a secondary measure, should it fail to hit the warhead, CIWS's rate of fire is intended to blow holes in the missile body, causing it to break up in air.

The gun subsystem employs a gatling gun consisting of a rotating cluster of six barrels. The gatling gun fires a 20mm subcaliber sabot projectile using a heavy-metal (either tungsten or depleted uranium) 15mm penetrator surrounded by a plastic sabot and a light-weight metal pusher. The gatling gun fires 20mm ammunition at either 3,000 or 4,500 rounds-per-minute with a burst length of continuous, 60, or 100 rounds.

As a defensive weapon, the Close In Weapons System (CIWS) has special significance for Navy ships and their crews. Battle tested by the British during the Falkand War in the early 1980's, CIWS proved remarkably effective. Navy ship crews routinely test and operate CIWS to ensure the system is working correctly. While most testing involves tracking and firing at a simulated target, the real excitement starts when the fire control teams can fire at a real target.

CIWS has been a mainstay self defense system aboard nearly every class of ship since the late 70’s. It was originally designed to defeat low altitude antiship cruise missiles (ASCMs). As antiship cruise missiles became more complex in maneuvers and ability to be detected, and warfare areas moved from open ocean to littoral environments, CIWS has evolved to meet the threat.

Block 0 incorporated on-mount search and track radars, the M61A1 gatling gun capable of firing at a rate of 3,000 rounds per minute, and a 980-round magazine.

Block 1 incorporated a new search antenna to detect high altitude missiles, improved search sensitivity, increased the ammunition available for firing by 50 percent, a pneumatic gun drive which increased the firing rate to 4500 rounds per minute, and started using tungsten ammunition in place of depleted uranium. Block I improvements provide increased elevation coverage, larger magazine space for increased round capacity, a variable and higher gun fire rate, and improved radar and processing capabilities.

Block 1 baseline 0 upgrades included a larger magazine (1,500 rounds), a multiple pulse repetition frequency search radar, an expanded radar search envelope to counter diving targets as well as reliability and maintainability improvements.

Block 1 baseline 1 replaced the hydraulic gun drive with a pneumatic (air-driven) gun drive system that increased the rate of fire to 4,500 rounds per minute. Search radar sensitivity was also improved in the baseline 1 upgrade.

Block I baseline 2 introduced further reliability upgrades and a muzzle restraint to decrease dispersion. Installed on multiple non-Aegis and Aegis ships, neither the original Phalanx Block 0 nor the subsequent Block 1 baseline 0, 1, or 2 upgrades are integrated with a ship self-defense system. A January 1992 Chief of Naval Operations decision requires replacement of Phalanx with the new ESSM system in new construction DDG ships. Though it initially appeared that DDG-79 would be the first new construction DDG to receive Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile in lieu of Phalanx, it now appears that, due to a slippage in the ESSM development program, DDG-85 will be the first. The Navy plans to install the Phalanx Block 1 baseline 2 configuration as temporary installations on DDG-79 through 84 until ESSM is produced.

Block 1A incorporated a new High Order Language Computer (HOLC) to provide more processing power over the obsolete general purpose digital computer, improved fire control algorithms to counter maneuvering targets, search multiple weapons coordination to better manage engagements, and an end-to-end testing function to better determine system functionality. Block 1A provides for basic integration with the Ship Self Defense System and enables RAM missile engagement through the Phalanx detection and track function. As of mid-March 2000, Block 1A installations had been completed on 20 DDG (Aegis) destroyers, 2 LHD, 2 FFG-7, and 9 LSD 41/49 class ships. In addition, LHD-7 (currently under construction) will commission with Block 1A.

Block 1B Phalanx Surface Mode (PSUM) upgrade allows engagement of small, high-speed, maneuvering surface craft and low, slow-moving aircraft, and hovering helicopters. This upgrade incorporates a thermal imager, an automatic acquisition video tracker, and a stabilization system for the imager, providing both day and night detection of threats. The thermal imager improves the system's ability to engage anti-ship cruise missiles by providing more accurate angle tracking information to the fire control computer. Additionally, the FLIR assists the radar in engaging some ASCM’s bringing a greater chance of ship survivability. The thermal imager Automatic Acquisition Video Tracker (AAVT) and stablilization system provide surface mode and electro-optic (EO) angle track. Operational evaluation of Block 1B, conducted aboard USS Underwood (FFG-36) and the Self-Defense Test Ship, was completed in August 1999. According to Phalanx Program Office plans, Block 1B will be installed in 11 other FFG-7 CORT ships between June 2000 and July 2002.

Baseline 2C improvements provide an integrated multi-weapon operations capability. During integrated operations, the command system controls CIWS sensors, target reports, mode employment, and doctrine. The sensors are utilized to provide 360 degree search and track coverage, while providing track data to, and receiving designations from, the Command system. This CIWS installation includes a conversion kit for each weapon group to facilitate ease and safety of maintenance; the "maintenance enclosure" kit installs the below-deck equipment for a gun mount in a prefabricated enclosure with the mount located above it.

According to the Navy's Material Readiness Database for fiscal years 1997 through 1999, the SLQ-32 electronic warfare system, NATO Sea Sparrow Surface Missile System (NSSMS), Phalanx Close-in Weapon System, and the SPS-48E radar system were among the ship self-defense systems with the lowest availability rates. The Navy's measure of effectiveness for Equipment Operational Capability (availability) is classified in the following manner: Operable = Greater than 0.8; Minor problems = 0.7 - 0.8; Limited capability = 0.5 - 0.6; Major problems = 0.3 - 0.4; Inoperative = 0 - 0.2.

Equipment type and
version Availability ratea Impediments to availability
FY 97 FY 98 FY 99
Phalanx Close-in Weapon System
Lack of funds for timely overhaul,
hydraulic problems, limited parts
commonality, excessive parts
Block 0 0.71 0.82 0.68 usage, lack of onboard spare
parts, lack of onboard repair and
preventive maintenance, crew
inexperience, and inadequate
manning for maintenance.
Block 1 Bl0 0.80 0.78 0.81
Block 1 Bl1/2/1A 0.72 0.77 0.73


Ak-630 Close-in Weapon System

12-barrel 20mm FABA Meroka 2B close-in weapons system

Netherlands 30 mm/77 (1.2") Goalkeeper SGE-30 CIWS

A joint project by Signaal and General Electric, Goalkeeper is a close-in weapon for use against missiles and aircraft. The system automatically performs the entire process from surveillance and detection to destruction, including selection of the next priority target. Goalkeeper uses a dual radar system, an I-band track-while-scan search-and-acquisition set which hands off to a dual frequency L/K-band target-tracking radar for the actual gun engagement.

This system can track up to thirty targets, engaging the four most urgent. It will minimize the salvo length to engage as many targets as possible and is thought to be able to deal with two pairs of sea-skimming missiles as little as five seconds apart.

The General Electric (General Dynamics Armaments) 30 mm (1.2") GAU-8/A seven-barrel Gatling gun used by Signaal is also used for French close-in weapon systems, including SAMOS and Satan. It is perhaps most famously used on the US Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt anti-tank aircraft.

Ship Class Used On: Netherlands: Karel Doorman and "M" classes
Britain: Invincible, Type 22 Batch 3 and Type 23
Exported to South Korea and others
Date Of Design: about 1975
Date In Service: 1980
Gun Weight: 620 lbs. (281 kg)
Gun Length oa: 114.2 in (2.900 m)
Bore Length: 90.6 in (2.300 m)
Maximum Effective Range about 2,200 yards (2,000 m)
Min/Max Range 160 to 3,300 yards (150 to 3,000 m)

Master Chief

As for a list of missile systems " In NO order"

ASTER-15/30
Crotale
Crotale EDIR
Masurca obslete
Mistral
RIM-116A/B RAM (Rolling Airframe Missile)
Aspide
HQ-61
RBS-70 Sweeden
Sea Cat "obslete"
Sea Dart
Sea Slug "obslete"
Sea Wolf
RIM-7 Sea Sparrow
Talos "obslete"
Tartar "obslete"
Terrier "obslete"
SM-1/2/3 Family (list to big)
Stinger "not used anymore" On ships
SA-N-1 Goa
SA-N-2 Guidline "obslete"
SA-N-3 Goblet A/B
SA-N-4 Gecko
SA-N-5 Grail
SA-N-6 Grumble
SA-N-7 Gadfly
SA-N-8 Gremlin
SA-N-9
SA-N-11
I know there are a few more to add to the list I have to look threw may papers.

Here is a little about standard missiles.
SM-1 RIM-66 / RIM-67 Standard Missile

Standard Missile-1 (SM-1) entered production in 1967, and is still operational with many international navies. In preparation for the U.S. Navy’s withdrawal of its SM-1 compatible ships, support transitioned to Raytheon. Raytheon led a team of companies which provide users with continued access to spares and repair services for the foreseeable future.

Standard-1 (SM-1) and Standard-2 (SM-2), medium-range (MR), and extended-range (ER) missiles have a cylindrical airframe. The airframe tapers into a radome, four fixed dorsal fins, and four independently movable steering control surfaces.

Standard-1 (RIM-66) is a medium-range (MR), surface-launched missile employing passive or semiactive homing. It is propelled by an integral dual-thrust rocket motor. The SM-1 MR is installed on FFG-, DDG-, CG-, and CGN-class ships equipped with Aegis and a Tartar combat system.

Standard-1 (RIM-67) is an extended-range (ER), surface-launched missile employing passive/ semiactive homing or midcourse command guidance. It is propelled by a detachable rocket booster and an integral sustainer rocket motor. SM-1 ER is installed on CGN-, CG-, and DDG-37- class ships equipped with Terrier combat systems.

On 21 February 1995 Hughes Missile Systems Company, Tucson, Ariz., was awarded an additional $5,501,585 to a previously awarded contract to exercise options for 10 SM-1 BLK VIA All-Up-Round (AUR) missiles and spare missile components for the government of Japan under the Foreign Military Sales Program (FMS).

On 29 December 1994 Hughes Missile Systems Company, Tucson, Arizona, was awarded a $78,667,984 fixed-price definitizing contract modification. This modification definitized the long lead material contract N00024-94-C-5322, awarded in October 1993, to support production of 154 STANDARD Missile (SM-1) Block VI All-Up-Round missiles and missile components. This modification also included an option for 10 missiles and spare missile components valued at $5,502,243. Work will be performed in Highland Park, Arkansas (4 percent), and Tucson, Arizona (96 percent), and is expected to be completed by October 1996.

Oliver Hazard Perry class frigates use the SM-1 MR. The SM-1 was phased out of US service in 2003.



SM-2 RIM-66 / RIM-67 Standard Missile

In response to the changing threat, the US Navy funded the development of today’s Standard Missile-2 (SM-2). Standard-2 MR incorporates midcourse guidance, which allows programming of the missile for radar search only. The missile is redirected in midflight and then again during the terminal homing phase. SM-2 MR is installed on the DDG- and CGN-type ships and on Aegis CG-class ships.

SM-2 is deployed in several different configurations, ranging from the SM-2 Block IIIA up through the SM-2 Block IV ER for the US Navy’s AEGIS compatible ships. SM-2’s primary role is to provide area defense against enemy aircraft and antiship missiles. The current generation of SM-2 Blocks IIIA and IIIB, capitalizes on technology improvements to substantially increase performance against the advanced antiship missile threat.

The Standard Missile-2 (SM-2) is the Navy’s primary surface-to-air fleet defense weapon. The currently deployed SM-2 Block II/III/IIIA configurations are all-weather, ship-launched medium-range fleet air defense missiles derived from the SM-1 (RIM-66B). SM-2 employs an electronic countermeasures-resistant monopulse receiver for semi-active radar terminal guidance and inertial midcourse guidance capable of receiving midcourse command updates from the shipboard fire control system. SM-2 is launched from the Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) and the Mk 26 Guided Missile Launching System (GMLS). SM-2 continues to evolve to counter expanding threat capabilities, and improvements in advanced high and low-altitude threat interception, particularly in stressing electronic countermeasures (ECM) environments, are being implemented through modular changes to the missile sections.

The SM-2 is a solid propellant-fueled, tail-controlled, surface to air missile fired by surface ships. Designed to counter high-speed, high-altitude anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs) in an advanced ECM environment, its primary mode of target engagement uses mid-course guidance with radar illumination of the target by the ship for missile homing during the terminal phase. The SM-2 can also be used against surface targets. SM-2 Blocks II through IV are long-range interceptors that provide protection against aircraft and antiship missiles, thereby expanding the battlespace.

The Block II version of SM-2 includes a signal processor to provide less vulnerability to ECM, an improved fuze and focused-blast fragment warhead to provide better kill probability against smaller, harder targets, and new propulsion for higher velocities and maneuverability.

A Block III version of SM-2 provides improved capability against low altitude targets.

Block IIIA, a modification to this version, extends capability to even lower altitudes. RIM-66C Block IIIA includes a new warhead that imparts greater velocity to warhead fragments in the direction of the target.

Block IIIB is the next step in the continuing evolution of the Standard Missile family, incorporating an infrared (IR) guidance mode capability developed in Missile Homing Improvement Program (MHIP) with the radio frequency (RF) semi-active guidance system of the proven SM-2 Block IIIA. The MHIP dual-mode RF/IR guidance capability is being incorporated to counter a specific fielded and proliferating electronic warfare systems in existing aircraft and ASCM threats. OPEVAL of SM-2 Block IIIB was conducted during April 1996, with missile firings by an Aegis cruiser that was completing workup training for deployment. Based on OPEVAL results, SM-2 Block IIIB is operationally effective and suitable.

These SM-2 versions are provided as medium range (MR) rounds that can be fired from Aegis rail launchers, Aegis vertical launch systems (VLS), and Tartar rail launchers.

The Block IV version was developed to provide extended range [ER], improved cross-range and higher altitude capability for Aegis VLS ships, as well as improved performance against low RCS targets and against complex ECM. The SM-2 Block IV is a kinematic improvement beyond the SM-2 Block III, incorporating a thrust-vector controlled booster, a more robust airframe, and guidance and control modifications for improved altitude/range/cross-range coverage against high-performance, low radar cross-section threats in a stressing electronic countermeasures (ECM) environment. Standard-2 ER incorporates the same midcourse guidance as the MR version.

RIM-67E was an interim designation of the SM-2ER Block IV. The Navy initially proposed the designation RIM-68A for the Block IV missile, in sequence with the RIM-66 and RIM-67. However, the designation RIM-156A was allocated instead.

The Standard Missile-2 Block IV program experienced considerable development problems and schedule delays in 1991. Primarily due to booster problems, the first successful propulsion test vehicle firing was been delayed more than a year. As a result, the initial production decision, once scheduled for the middle of fiscal year 1991, slipped until December 1992, the first quarter of fiscal year 1993. Since only early IOT&E of SM-2 Block IV was conducted to support its LRIP decision, its capability was never fully determined (capability was not demonstrated against ASCM threat representative, maneuvering targets nor against low altitude, low Doppler targets). That is, the Block IV program was restructured, with the intention to proceed to DT&E/OT&E to support a full production decision if technical problems are encountered with development of the SM-2 Block IVA that preclude its retention of Block IV capability (never fully determined) against anti-air warfare threats.

In addition to providing significant increases in ship area defense capability, the SM-2 Block IV is the developmental stepping stone to SM-2 Block IVA, the Navy’s Area Theater Ballistic Missile Defense (TBMD) missile.

Block IVA adds a dual-mode radio frequency/infrared (RF/IR) sensor, an upgraded ordnance package, and autopilot/control enhancements to the SM-2 Block IV The SM-2 Block IVA missile uses the TBMD-modified Aegis Weapon System on board Aegis cruisers and destroyers to track and engage TBMs, enhancing U.S. littoral warfare capability by allowing Aegis ships to provide TBMD for ships at sea and ground force embarkation areas ashore, without the constraints imposed by sealift or airlift. The SM-2 Block IVA upgrade is being developed to provide capability against theater ballistic missiles, although it is planned to retain capability against anti-air warfare threats. A System Design Review for SM-2 Block IVA was conducted in December 1993 and a Risk Reduction Flight Demonstration (RRFD) program was initiated in FY 1994. An Environmental Test Round (ETR-2A) was successfully launched in the summer 1996. On January 24, 1997, the Navy successfully demonstrated a Theater Ballistic Missile Defense capability when a ballistic missile target was shot from the sky for the first time using a new version of the Standard missile family. This Developmental Test Round (DTR-1) demonstrated the imaging infrared seeker and the capability to intercept a TBM.

Full production approvals for SM-2 Blocks have been as follows: Block II was approved in December 1986; Block III in June 1988; Block IIIA in February 1992; and Block IIIB in September 1996, following the OPEVAL summarized below. Block IV was approved for LRIP in May 1995, but further development and procurement were deferred, depending on development of the Block IVA missile, the interceptor for the Navy Area TBMD program, and Block IVA retention of Block IV capability against anti-air warfare threats. On April 16, 1999 Raytheon Systems Company, Tucson AZ, was awarded a not-to-exceed $135,236,224 fixed-price with award-fee, letter contract for the procurement of 71 SM-2 Block IIIB (AUR's), 63 SM-2 Block IIIB ORDALT kits to upgrade SM-2 Block III missiles to SM-2 Block IIIB, 43 SM-2 Block IV AUR's, 100 AN/DKT-71A telemetric data transmitting sets, section level spares, shipping containers and handling equipment.

Master Chief

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.

In 2004 the Pentagon decided to embark on the development in fiscal 2007 of an enhanced version of the Standard Missile 3 interceptor.

Flight Test Program
The Aegis BMD flight test program has achieved four successful intercepts in five attempts. These flight tests have demonstrated the capability to intercept short-range, simple unitary targets in both descent and ascent phases of flight, and in the case of FM-6, have shown the capability to destroy the target warhead.

The AEGIS LEAP Intercept (ALI) program has demonstrated the design capabilities of the SM-3 KW with a series of ground and flight tests. ALI culminated in two successful ballistic missile intercepts on the first two engagement missions. Flight Mission Two (FM-2) flown on 25 January 2002 and Flight Mission Three (FM-3) on 13 June 2002 were completely successful allowing the program to proceed into testbed development.

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 successful intercept for the program. 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.

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 include 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.

On 18 June 2003. A developmental Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) is launched from the U.S. Navy cruiser, USS Lake Erie (CG-70), in a Missile Defense Agency test, Wednesday, near Kauai, Hawaii. The test was the latest in a series aimed at developing a sea-based defense against short to medium range ballistic missile threats.

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). 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 Òhit to killÓ 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.

Raytheon's next hit-to-kill success with the sea-based STANDARD Missile-3 occurred on 11 December 2003. 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Deployment
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. There will be a total of 15 LRS&T Aegis Destroyers and 3 Aegis BMD engagement Cruisers by the end of CY 06.

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.

Japan Maritime Self Defense Force Deployment
The potential for allied cooperation in development and procurement of a BMD system is real. 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.

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.

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.

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

highsea

Thanks Kams. Sounds like they will be getting things straightened out soon.

MarquezRazor

IN really need to get their hands on an AWACS.