Missile Defense Strategy Shift: Focusing on Early Intercepts and Space-Based Tracking

Strategic Insights -

The U.S. military is preparing for a significant shift in its missile defense strategy, moving away from midcourse phased Multiple Kill Vehicle research and the Kinetic Interceptor program. Instead, the focus will be on developing an early intercept capability, utilizing near-term interceptors and leveraging sensors in command and control networks to counter emerging medium- and intermediate-range threats. This strategy aims to address the significant flight test delays, target and interceptor failures, cost growth, quality control, and program delays encountered in the past.

Key Takeaways:

  • The U.S. military is terminating the midcourse phased Multiple Kill Vehicle research program and the Kinetic Interceptor program, citing significant cost, operational, and platform integration issues.
  • A new focus will be on developing an early intercept capability, which will be available years sooner and more cost-effective than the canceled programs.
  • The early intercept capability will utilize near-term interceptors and leverage sensors in command and control networks to counter emerging medium- and intermediate-range threats.
  • The department is also introducing milestone reviews to provide transparency and comply with the Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Act of 2009.
  • The Space Tracking and Surveillance System Demonstration Satellites will be launched later this year to enhance persistent missile tracking capability from space.

Statistics:

  • The proposed FY '10 budget for the development of an early intercept capability is $368 million.
  • The Near Field Infrared Experiment satellite has collected extremely close data of a boosting missile in FY '09.
  • The Space Tracking and Surveillance System Demonstration Satellites are being prepared for launch later this year.
  • The Missile Defense Executive Board, chaired by the undersecretary of Defense of Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, provides guidance and oversight over resource capability development prioritization and acquisition processes.

Sources:

  • William Lynn, Deputy Secretary of Defense, and other witnesses at the Hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, June 16, 2009. Federal News Service, Inc. (2009).