Raytheon is set to significantly increase production of the SM-6 multi-mission interceptor after securing a contract worth as much as $24.4 billion from the US Navy. The initial contract covers five years and contains provisions for two further option years. It follows a landmark February agreement designed to raise annual SM-6 manufacturing capacity beyond 500 missiles. The SM-6 is considered a highly flexible weapon because it can perform three distinct functions—defending against ballistic missiles, engaging airborne threats, and conducting anti-surface warfare. The missile measures roughly 6.6 meters in length, has a wingspan of about 1.1 meters and weighs approximately 1,497 kilograms. It is capable of reaching speeds around Mach 3.5 and has a maximum stated range of approximately 370 km. The weapon is compatible with major US Navy surface combatants, including Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers and Ticonderoga-class cruisers. Its employment has also expanded beyond traditional ship-launched operations. The US Army’s Typhon system can use the missile as part of its mid-range strike capability, while the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet provides an aircraft-launched option. The contract represents a major investment in expanding SM-6 availability and sustaining a missile that provides the US military with a common interceptor capable of addressing several categories of threats.
