Development
The SM-3 evolved from the proven SM-2 Block IV design. The SM-3 uses the same booster and dual thrust rocket motor as the Block IV missile for the first and second stages and the same steering control section and midcourse missile guidance for maneuvering in the atmosphere. To support the extended range of an exo-atmospheric intercept, additional missile thrust is provided in a new third stage for the SM-3 missile, containing a dual pulse rocket motor for the early exo-atmospheric phase of flight.
On 18 May 2010 the Missile Defense Agency responded to a report of problems with the SM-3 in The New York Times, calling the report flawed and stating that the missile tests had been successful.
Read more about this topic: RIM-161 Standard Missile 3
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