GMD remains a research and development
program managed by the Missile
Defense Agency (MDA). The program this year will focus on rigorously
testing two new and more capable booster designs and completing construction
at several locations for the program's initial activation next year.
Boeing as the prime-contractor is responsible
for the development, test, and integration of all the GMD elements, including
the Ground-based Interceptor, X-Band Radar Prototype, Battle Management,
Command, Control and Communication systems, Upgraded Early Warning Radars
and interfaces to the Defense Support Program. Major team members include
Raytheon Company (kill
vehicles, radars); Northrop
Grumman (BMC2); Lockheed
Martin Missiles & Space (booster vehicles); Orbital
Sciences Corporation (booster vehicles); Bechtel
(facilities design and construction); and Teledyne
Brown Engineering (Integrated Systems Testing Capabilities and technical
services).
Full funding of GMD in the U.S. Congress
for the next fiscal year and beyond is essential to achieving a near-term
capability by the program goal of September 30, 2004. Full funding
will also enable the program to quickly and effectively expand and upgrade
the system to meet emerging threats against the U.S. and its allies. |
