Space

BOOSTER VERIFICATION TEST LAUNCH SUCCESSFUL

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE

January 9, 2004

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. - Team Vandenberg successfully launched Booster Verification Test-5 at 10:40 a.m. today. BVT-5 tested a three-stage booster configuration for use with the Missile Defense Agency's Ground-based Midcourse Defense System. Built by Lockheed Martin Corp., the booster is one of two slated for use with the GMD system. The system is designed to intercept and destroy long-range ballistic missiles.