On Oct 26, the latest evolution of the Aegis Combat System, Baseline 9.C2 (BMD5.1) successfully supported an MDA-led at-sea Ballistic Missile Defence System test event. During the test, the Aegis Weapon System built by Lockheed Martin detected, tracked, engaged and launched a missile to intercept a Medium Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM) target.

The test, called Flight Test Standard Missile–45, demonstrated the integrated capabilities of the Aegis Weapon System and how it has continually evolved to counter advanced threats. This test demonstrated the new engagement assessment functionality, bi-directional missile communications and sensor improvement algorithms.

“This test authenticates the strengthening global security of the United States and its allies as we deepen defence capabilities with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defence System,” said Paul KLAMMER, director, Aegis BMD. “This exercise showed that Aegis is the most advanced combat system and the proven choice for layered defence.”

This test builds upon joint research investments by the United States and Japan and comes on the heels of a successful test with the JS ATAGO (DDG 177) in September. Lockheed Martin is developing a Baseline 9/BMD 5.1 variant computer program, for deployment on Japan’s Aegis destroyers.

As a proven world leader in systems integration and development of air and missile defence systems and technologies, Lockheed Martin delivers high-quality missile defence solutions that protect citizens, critical assets and deployed forces from current and future threats. The company’s experience spans missile design and production, hit-to-kill capabilities, infrared seekers, command and control/battle management and communications, precision pointing and tracking optics, radar and signal processing, as well as threat-representative targets for missile defence tests.