Aegis missile defence system with upgraded SM-6 Dual II SWUP successfully destroyed a medium-range ballistic missile

The Missile Defence Agency (MDA) and the US Navy have successfully tested the upgraded Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) interceptor. The test took place on 30 March 2023.

Here's What We Know

The USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118) with the Aegis missile defence system participated in the test. The test took place at the Pacific Missile Range in Hawaii.

The USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118) fired two SM-6 Dual II interceptors with Software Upgrade Package (SWUP). They were able to successfully destroy a medium-range ballistic missile in the final phase of flight.

This is the third successful test of an Aegis missile defence ship using the SM-6 Dual II interceptor and the debut test of the SM-6 Dual II SWUP. The MDA said the successful completion of the test demonstrated that the SM-6 Dual II SWUP was ready for deployment to defend US forces and allies.

Source: US Navy