ATK Successfully Test Fires First Stage of Kinetic Energy Interceptors
Test Performed at Cold Temperatures to Simulate Potential Launch Environment
MINNEAPOLIS, Nov. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Alliant Techsystems (NYSE: ATK) successfully test-fired a Kinetic Energy Interceptors (KEI) first stage solid rocket motor at its Promontory, Utah facility. The KEI weapon system, under development by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA), represents the next generation of high-speed missile defense, enabling a mobile capability that can address multiple classes of threats.
This test was performed at cold temperatures to simulate rocket motor performance in one of several possible launch environments. Because of its mobility, KEI is planned to be capable of launching in multiple climates around the world. ATK recently conducted a successful second stage KEI test that was also performed at similar temperatures. These tests will lead to a full booster flight scheduled for 2009.
"This global missile defense system will allow the United States to rapidly respond to a threat world-wide, protecting the nation and its allies," said Bill Condas, ATK vice president of strategic systems. "This successful test is another milestone towards providing the country a state-of-the-art defense system."
Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC) is leading an industry team to work with MDA on the development and test program. Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) is responsible for developing and integrating the KEI system's interceptor. ATK will supply KEI's rocket motor propulsion systems.
The KEI weapon system is designed to intercept a missile during its boost, ascent, or midcourse phase of flight. A successful intercept requires multi-sensor fire control, in-flight updates to the interceptor and a rocket that can perform at high rates of speed while simultaneously maneuvering to the target. KEI is envisioned to be capable of launching from mobile platforms that can be positioned to respond to military threats around the world. ATK harnessed its decades of experience in high-tech composites and advance propellant development to ensure the motors are lightweight, versatile and high-performing.
ATK is the propulsion subcontractor on the KEI program. As a member of the KEI team, ATK produces the stage 1 and stage 2 rocket motors for the integrated flight vehicle. The KEI canister launch eject gas generators will also be produced by ATK.
ATK is a premier aerospace and defense company with more than 17,000 employees in 21 states and approximately $4.6 billion in revenue. News and information can be found on the Internet at http://www.atk.com/.
Certain information discussed in this press release constitutes forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Although ATK believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectations will be achieved. Forward-looking information is subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Among those factors are: the challenges of developing next-generation missile defense technology; the challenges of developing next-generation missile intercept technology; changes in governmental spending, budgetary policies and product sourcing strategies; the company's competitive environment; the terms and timing of awards and contracts; and economic conditions. ATK undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements. For further information on factors that could impact ATK, and statements contained herein, please refer to ATK's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Media Contact: Investor Contact: Trina Patterson Steve Wold Phone: 801-699-0943 Phone: 952-351-3056 E-mail: trina.patterson@atk.com E-mail: steve.wold@atk.com
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