U.S. will sell Raytheon SM-6 Block I missiles to Japan worth $450 million

The U.S. State Department approved the sale of SM-6 Block I missiles to Japan. This was reported by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).

Here's What We Know

Japan has ordered 32 missiles and will receive them in two tranches of 16. Also the MK-21 VLS vertical-launch rocket launchers, spare parts and training equipment will be sent to Japan. The contract value is $450 million.

The manufacturer of SM-6 Block I missiles, aka RIM-174 SM-6 ERAM, is Raytheon. The missiles have an improved guidance system on the final leg of the flight due to the use of an active radar homing head. It was borrowed from AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missile.

Another feature of the SM-6 Block I is the use of the Mk 72 booster, which is installed in the SM-3. It provides a maximum range of 240 km. In flight, the missile can climb to an altitude of 33 km.

Source: DSCA

Image: Defense Brief