The U.S. Missile Defense Agency and a Boeing team successfully tested the Ground-based Midcourse Defense system with an interception of an intermediate-range ballistic missile in space.
The test validated the GMD’s capability configuration, giving the Missile Defense operators more time, space and flexibility to intercept ballistic missile threats to the U.S. homeland.
During the test, the GMD interceptor released a kinetic-force Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle or EKV during the rocket booster’s second stage of its normally three-stage flight.
“This successful test is important because it opens up the window of opportunity to intercept threats to our homeland,” said Debbie Barnett, vice president of Strategic Missile & Defense Systems.
Boeing has been the lead system integrator for the GMD program since its inception in 1998. The GMD has been on alert for nearly two decades.
Boeing employs approximately 3,300 people in Alabama, according to its website. The company’s Huntsville operations help develop missile and weapons systems, as well as Space Launch Systems and the International Space Station.
