A Standard Missile (SM) 2 fires from the forward missile deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81). Source: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service

Demonstrating a commitment to transatlantic security and defence interoperability, US Naval Forces Europe, in collaboration with the Danish Defense Forces, are set to commence advanced convoy protection drills utilising the SM-6 missile launcher. 

The SM-6 missile system can intercept airborne threats, including the interception of ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight. Its dual-capability design ensures precise engagement of stationary terrestrial targets and dynamic maritime adversaries.

The containerised configuration of the SM-6 launcher enhances the operational flexibility of the US Navy, enabling swift deployment and utilisation across theatres of operation. Commencing the week of 18 September in Bornholm, Denmark, this exercise underscores the United States’ dedication to safeguarding its interests and those of its allies.

This venture, hosted on Danish soil, reaffirms Denmark’s strategic significance as a key ally in maintaining regional stability. The exercise cements the enduring defence partnership between the United States and Denmark and underscores the shared commitment to mutual security objectives and co-operative defence efforts. 

Together, these two nations stand united in an ever-evolving global security landscape, demonstrating the strength of collaboration in defence.

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James Marques, aerospace, defence, and security analyst at GlobalData, provided background on why the drills are happening: “The SM-6 is a very versatile air defence missile, and making sure that allied navies who use the same weapons understand how to use their capabilities in concert is important.

If allied ships have to sail together in a combat situation, they will rely on one another to protect shared airspace around the group, so coordination to correctly use ammunition is important.”

Manufactured by RTX for the US Navy, the US Navy reached initial operational capability with the SM-6 missile in 2013, following the successful installation onboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile vessel USS Kidd (DDG 100) in San Diego, California, US.