Northrop Grumman has successfully completed the first of two key fiscal 2006 tests for the Kinetic Energy Interceptor battle management capability, dubbed the KEI Fire Control and Communications system. The test was completed five weeks ahead of schedule on March 1 when the Continental KEI system at Schriever AFB, Colo. demonstrated a capability to direct sensor data from satellite constellations to a deployed battery to increase boost phase engagement accuracy. The interceptor itself is on track for a booster flight test in 2008.
The U.S. supports “a stronger and more capable” European defense, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III said during an Oct. 22 press conference in Brussels—but that defense should not duplicate the functions and capabilities of the NATO alliance.