The US Missile Defense Agency (MDA) conducted a large-scale test of a selectable ground-based interceptor (GBI) missile system that destroyed an air-launched medium-range ballistic missile target.

Supported by contractors Northrop Grumman, Boeing and Raytheon, FTG-12 was a comprehensive test of the MDA Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system and fire control system’s ability to coordinate a wide range of sensors and command and control centers. Increasing target diversity.

The US GMB system consists of 44 interceptor missiles, with 20 others deployed in Alaska and California, as well as a complex sensor network designed to protect against unauthorized missile launches and deter large-scale attacks.

One of the problems facing such a defense system is that while previous systems were designed to deal only with intercontinental ballistic missiles operating at the edge of space, its modern counterpart also has to deal with intercontinental ballistic missiles with gentler trajectories and lower altitude. However, current interceptors are three-stage missiles that develop momentum high enough to miss the target.

To prevent this, MDA developed a second/third stage interceptor that could act as two separate stages or as a second stage, so that the EKV could turn before the third stage could fire to intervene. Additionally, the new GMD Capability Increment 6B configuration provides greater time, distance and flexibility in system response.

“Using a 2/3-stage, ground-based interceptor with a 2-stage selectable mode, this test provides the warfighter with an increased battlefield that supports additional firing options to destroy an approaching missile,” said Lt. Gen. Heath, MDA Director. Collins. Source