The objective of FTM-33 was to intercept a raid of two Short Range Ballistic Missile targets with four Standard Missile-6 Dual II missiles.
Based on initial observations, one target was successfully intercepted. At this time, we cannot confirm the second target was destroyed.
FTM-33 was the most complex mission executed in MDA (a raid of two test targets and two SM-6 Dual II salvos consisting of four missiles). It was the third flight test of an Aegis BMD-equipped vessel using the SM-6 Dual II missile.
FTM-33, originally scheduled for December 2020, was delayed due to restrictions in personnel and equipment movement intended to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Program officials will continue to evaluate system performance based upon data obtained during the test.
The firing ship for the test was the USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114).
The SM-6 Dual II missile is designed for use in the terminal phase of a short- to- medium-range ballistic missile trajectory.
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