Raytheon Standard Missile-2 and Aegis Combat System Demonstrate Capability Against Subsonic and Supersonic Anti-Ship Missiles

TUCSON, Ariz., March 24, 2005 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company Standard Missile-2s, launched from the USS Momsen (DDG 92) the week of March 7, went seven for seven against a variety of targets. This testing utilized the new Aegis Weapon System Baseline 7 Phase 1 and also involved successful Raytheon Evolved SeaSparrow Missile firings.

The SM-2s -- in block III, IIIA and IIIB variants -- were fired against subsonic and supersonic targets in various configurations and in a littoral environment. The testing also included a dual engagement against two targets -- two SM-2s were launched nearly simultaneously against two targets and achieved two kills.

"These tests are validation of the successful partnership between Raytheon and the U.S. Navy to ensure the continued delivery of a high quality, fully capable weapon system to the warfighter," said Duane Hawkins, Raytheon Standard Missile program director.

"With more than 50 years of leadership in the anti-air warfare arena, these recent successes validate that the Standard Missile family of weapons continues to be the world's most capable deployed fleet defense missile," said Capt. Mick Outten, the U.S. Navy's program manager, Surface Ship Weapons and Launchers.

Raytheon produces SM-2 at its Missile Systems business unit in Tucson, Ariz. The primary role of SM-2 is to provide area defense against enemy aircraft and anti-ship missiles. The SM-2 Block IIIB, which entered the fleet in 1998, incorporates a side-mounted infrared seeker to aid in endgame guidance. SM-2 is operational on guided missile cruisers, destroyers and frigates in the U.S. Navy and is in operation with 13 allied navies.

Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN), with 2004 sales of $20.2 billion, is an industry leader in defense and government electronics, space, information technology, technical services, and business and special mission aircraft. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 80,000 people worldwide.

  Contact:
   Sara Hammond
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SOURCE: Raytheon Company

Web site: http://www.raytheon.com/