The US Ballistic Missile Defense Organization (BMDO) has postponed for the second time the initial National Missile Defense (NMD) programme intercept test, saying it needs more preparation. Northrop Grumman launch tests of the canister that will contain the interceptor have been successful, however.
In April, it was decided to delay the critical BMDO test. Officials now say the demonstration will probably take place in the first week of October "because of the need to do more ground testing to gain greater confidence".
The trial will involve the launch of a target missile from Vandenberg AFB, California, while a prototype interceptor will be fired from Kwajalein atoll in the central Pacific.
The interceptor will be a Lockheed Martin Payload Launch Vehicle - a modified Minuteman II intercontinental ballistic missile - carrying a single Raytheon-built exo-atmospheric kill vehicle (EKV). A faulty EKV inertial measurement unit contributed to the second delay in the NMD tests.
Operational NMD systems will be based on a commercial launcher with an Alliant Techsystems Graphite Epoxy Motor stage and two United Technologies Chemical Systems Orbus rocket stages.
Meanwhile, Northrop Grumman has launched a test vehicle representing the Boeing NMD interceptor from a prototype canister to prove its structural, thermal, gas management and other operational characteristics. The canister will be used for storage and transportation, as well as for the launch of the interceptor.
Northrop Grumman will begin delivering 11 canisters to Boeing in November, allowing the NMD prime contractor to start weapon systems tests next year.
Boeing is leading the proposed $5.2 billion NMD programme, which also includes a network of radars and battle management command, control and communications systems. A deployment decision is scheduled for next year.
If the go-ahead is given, the NMD would be deployed in either North Dakota or Alaska five years later. The US Army expects to be the lead service for NMD, with reservists operating the interceptors. The US Air Force would operate the early warning systems.
Japan and the USA have signed a memorandum of understanding that covers analysis, preliminary design and risk reduction related to the US Navy Theater Wide (NTW) missile defence programme.
The work will lead to the design of components for the Standard Missile III, which is scheduled to be the interceptor for the USN's NTW.
Source: Flight International