Special to WorldTribune.com

WASHINGTON — The United States has been testing an enhanced
ballistic missile interceptor.

The U.S. military has overseen the launch of the latest variant of the
Standard Missile 3, or SM-3, interceptor employed in the sea-based Aegis
defense system. The military said the new SM-3 Block IB underwent its final
developmental test before serial production for the U.S. Navy.

“The SM-3 maneuvered to a point in space based on guidance from Aegis
BMD weapon system and released its kinetic warhead,” the Defense Department
said on May 16. “The warhead acquired the target re-entry vehicle, diverted
into its path, and, using only the force of a direct impact, engaged and
destroyed the target.”

Washington has been briefing several Middle East states, particularly
the Gulf Cooperation Council, on Aegis, already sold to Japan and Norway.
The Block IB was meant to be installed on the Aegis-4.0 system, deemed the
most advanced in the world.

During the test on May 15, the latest SM-3 was launched from the Aegis
cruiser USS Lake Erie off Hawaii to intercept a target missile. Officials
said IB employed its new dual-color seeker to distinguish the incoming
missile from debris. They said the missile was also equipped with a new
motor that controls fuel burn.

“Initial indications are that all components performed as designed,
officials said, and program officials will assess and evaluate system
performance based upon telemetry and other data obtained during the test,”
the Pentagon said.

The Navy has deemed Aegis and SM-3 a response to North Korea’s ballistic
missile program, which includes intercontinental weapons. North Korea has
been the leading missile supplier to the Middle East, particularly Iran and
Syria.

“This third successful intercept of the SM-3 block IB missile will now
enable procurement of this missile to replace and exceed the over 100 or so
SM-3 Block IA missiles. 81 SM-3 Block IB missiles in FY 13 and FY 14 are
scheduled to be appropriated by the United States Congress for $2.8
billion,” Riki Ellison, chairman of the Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance,
said.

  Aegis BMD weapon system, ready for production, SM-3 Block IB, U.S. advanced SM-3 missile interceptor passes final test, USS Lake Erie