The U.S. Navy conducted the second test of Raytheon's Standard Missile-6 extended range anti-air warfare missile Sept. 5.

Using the newly developed SM-6 active seeker, the missile intercepted a BQM-74 aerial drone. The active seeker, employing the U.S. Navy's legacy command system, autonomously acquired and engaged the target.

"The SM-6 integrates the legacy standard missile airframe and semi-active guidance technology with the power of the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) active seeker," said Louis Moncada, Raytheon Missile Systems' SM-6 program director.

"The test demonstrated this capability at low altitudes."

The SM-6 provides advanced anti-air warfare and over-the-horizon capabilities against aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles.

The over-the-horizon capabilities allow the missile to engage a target beyond the ship's line of sight.

"The SM-6 program continues to move forward on budget and on schedule," said Kirk Johnson, Naval Sea Systems Command Standard Missile program manager. "Combining the legacy SM-2 Block IV capability with the AMRAAM's active seeker is a true accomplishment."