The test, designated as FTX-23, used two Aegis ships and the Aegis Ashore Missile Defence Test Complex to perform target scene data collection of an MRBM with countermeasures. The test also included the firing of a Standard Missile-3 Block IIA (SM-3 Blk IIA) against the same medium range ballistic missile target, to verify additional functionality of the SM-3 Blk IIA.
“By providing a high-fidelity target our team helped ensure the MDA’s test program provided a realistic threat environment,” said Ross Niebergall, President, Aerojet Rocketdyne. “The MRBM target and C-17 cargo aircraft launch system enable streamlined operations in remote locations worldwide, essential to highly-effective, missile defence system testing.”
MRBM Type 1 and Type 2 targets are designed, manufactured and launched by Aerojet Rocketdyne’s Coleman site. In addition to the actual target vehicle, Aerojet Rocketdyne provides integrated logistics support, including inventory storage and maintenance, pre- and post-mission analysis, launch preparation, launch execution and engineering services.
The successful mission marks Aerojet Rocketdyne’s 38th launch in support of the U.S. missile defence program.
