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SM-3 Block IIA interceptor self-destruct after operator pushed wrong button

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An anonymous source told Defense News that the failure of the SM-3 Block IIA test on Jun. 21 was human error after tactical datalink controller accidentally identified in ballistic missile target as friendly. This trigger the self-destruct mechanism in the missile interceptor.

US Navy 070622-N-XXXXX-002 A Standard Missile (SM-3) is launched from the Aegis combat system equipped Arleigh Burke class destroyer USS Decatur (DDG 73)
By U.S. Navy photo [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

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