The early Standard missile is given a range of 3,000 to 35,000 yards, approximately 2.7 to 32 km. It needs time and distance after launch to arm safely. That creates an inner area in which the missile cannot engage a threat. The two 5-inch/54 guns on Charles F. Adams-class destroyers help cover this gap when an aircraft or missile gets too close for Standard. Their usefulness helps explain the continuing American preference for at least two such guns, including the Mark 42 mounting, alongside missiles.
Notable Point · 2:20:42-2:22:58
Missile minimum range preserves a place for 5-inch guns
Standard's inner engagement limit explains why a missile-armed destroyer still benefits from guns closer to the ship.