- The SM-2 Block IIIC/CU medium-range surface-to-air missile was showcased publicly for the first time at the Surface Navy Association 2026 symposium.
- The upgraded SM-2 variant features an active RF seeker and updated guidance systems for U.S. Navy ship-based air defense.
The SM-2 Block IIIC/CU medium-range surface-to-air missile was showcased publicly for the first time at the Surface Navy Association (SNA) 2026 symposium, bringing new visibility to the next-generation interceptor developed for U.S. Navy surface combatants.
Footage from the exhibition shows the SM-2 Block IIIC/CU, designated RIM-66P by Raytheon, displayed as part of ongoing efforts to update the Standard Missile family.
According to U.S. Navy program documentation, the SM-2 Block IIIC and follow-on Block IIICU are medium-range surface-to-air missiles equipped with active radio-frequency seekers, replacing the legacy semi-active guidance used on earlier SM-2 variants. The new seeker is derived from SM-6 Block I technology, allowing the missile to engage aerial threats with reduced dependence on continuous radar illumination from the launching ship.
The SM-2 Block IIIC configuration incorporates several airframe and control updates, including a redesigned dorsal fin and a thrust vectoring jet tab assembly. These changes are intended to improve missile control as it exits the launcher and transitions into powered flight, according to Navy testing and evaluation materials.
The Block IIICU variant builds on this design by integrating an upgraded Guidance Section Electronics Unit originally developed under the SM-6 Block IAU program. This modification addresses component obsolescence and improves long-term sustainment of the missile inventory. Navy documents state that integration of the upgraded guidance package is the defining difference between the Block IIIC and Block IIICU variants.
The U.S. Navy completed a quick reaction assessment of the SM-2 Block IIIC prototype in fiscal year 2023, which included a live missile firing, modeling and simulation studies, and a cyber tabletop assessment. These activities were conducted to support early fielding decisions rather than to determine full operational effectiveness or survivability, according to official testing reports.
Program materials indicate that the Navy declared interim capability for the SM-2 Block IIIC in November 2022 and expects to field the missile following completion of remaining evaluation steps. Initial operational test and evaluation of the SM-2 Block IIICU is planned for fiscal year 2027, reflecting the program’s phased approach to introducing upgraded guidance and electronics into the fleet.
Both missile variants are intended for use aboard Arleigh Burke–class destroyers and future Constellation-class frigates. The SM-2 Block IIIC/CU is designed to provide medium-range air defense against anti-ship cruise missiles and tactical aircraft and to operate within the Naval Integrated Fire Control–Counter Air (NIFC-CA) network, enabling engagements using off-board sensor data from other platforms.
Raytheon, a subsidiary of RTX, is listed as the prime contractor for the SM-2 Block IIIC and IIICU programs, with production and integration activities supporting continued use of the Standard Missile architecture across the surface fleet.