The U.S. Missile Defense Agency awarded Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company a $43.3 million contract April 7, 2011, for concept definition and program planning for the Standard Missile-3 Block IIB (SM-3 IIB) missile defense interceptor.
The new missile, formerly known as the Next Generation Aegis Missile, will provide early intercept capability against intermediate- and long-range ballistic missile threats. It will be a key element of the fourth phase of the Phased Adaptive Approach, which will provide enhanced capabilities against threats on a global basis. The missile will be integrated into the Aegis Weapon System, with the Aegis BMD 5.1 Fire Control and the MK 41 Vertical Launching System, as part of the land-based Aegis Ashore capability.
