31 May 2002
Defense Department Report: Missile Defense Test Results
(Advanced Patriot missile tested over the Pacific) (200)
The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and the Army conducted a missile
defense test over the Pacific May 30 in which one advanced Patriot
PAC-3 missile intercepted its target, but a second Patriot failed to
launch.
The point of the test was to launch two Lockheed Martin PAC-3s in
rapid succession against a two-stage modified Minuteman missile. An
MDA release said the test was designed to demonstrate the Patriot's
ability to classify the high-velocity, low-radar signature target as a
tactical ballistic missile, discriminate between the re-entry vehicle
and accompanying debris, and destroy the target off Kwajalein Atoll.
MDA is analyzing why the second Patriot "hit-to-kill" missile failed
to launch as planned.
This was the fourth operational test for the system, which is slated
for full-scale development in the fall.
Unlike the PAC-3, earlier versions of the Patriot -- used in the
Persian Gulf war -- employed an explosive warhead to destroy targets.
(The Washington File is a product of the Office of International
Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site:
http://usinfo.state.gov)
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