These are the combined second and third stages of a full-scale model of the U.S. Navy's Standard Missile-3 (SM-3), deployed on Aegis cruisers beginning in 2004. Built by Raytheon, it is a three-stage antiballistic missile that carries a Lightweight Exoatmospheric Projectile Kinetic Warhead (LEAP KW) in its nose. After radars detect an enemy missile, the SM-3 is launched. The LEAP KW separates from the third stage and uses its seeker and Divert and Attitude Control System to home in on the missile and destroy it by physical impact (a concept known as "hit-to-kill"). This model was built and donated by Raytheon in 2005.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
MODELS-Missiles & Rockets
Manufacturer
Raytheon Company
Dimensions
Overall: 16 ft. long x 3 ft. 2 in. wide at fins (487.68 x 96.52cm)
Materials
Metal and plastic
Alternate Name
Standard Missile-3
Inventory Number
A20050292000
Credit Line
Gift of the Raytheon Company.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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