_Missile Defense Agency press release_
During the flight experiment, the Aegis Guam System integrated with the new AN/TPY-6 radar and Vertical Launching System, fired a Standard Missile-3 Block IIA which intercepted an air-launched Medium Range Ballistic Missile target off the coast of Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The AN/TPY-6 radar tracked the target shortly after launch to intercept in the first end-to-end tracking use of the radar during a live ballistic missile flight test.
Designated Flight Experiment Mission-02, this event marks a pivotal step taken in defense of Guam initiatives and partnerships and provides critical support to the overall concept, requirements validation, data-gathering and model maturation for the future Guam Defense System (GDS). The future is focused on defending Guam and protecting forces from any potential regional missile threats.
> “This is a tremendous group effort and provides a glimpse of how organizations within the Department of Defense have come together to defend our homeland Guam now and in the future. Collectively, we will use this to build upon and validate joint tracking architecture and integrated air and missile defense capabilities for Guam. Thanks to all of those involved, especially the people and government of Guam.” MDA Director Lt. Gen. Heath Collins.
Standard Missile-3 Block IIA fitting in a VLS. MDA picture.
> “Today’s flight test is a critical milestone in the defense of Guam and the region. It confirmed our ability to detect, track, and engage a target missile in flight, increasing our readiness to defend against evolving adversary threats. The event’s success is a testament to the incredible work of the team both within the DoD and the Government of Guam.” Commander, Joint Task Force-Micronesia Rear Adm. Greg Huffman said.
FEM-02 is the first demonstration from Guam as part of the long-term initiative for the defense of Guam and will inform the larger effort to develop, install and operate GDS, which would be comprised of a combination of DoD service components working together to provide an Enhanced Integrated Air and Missile Defense system. Together the DoD service components would develop and deploy a persistent layered integrated air and missile defense capability.
Within the context of homeland defense, a top priority for the Department of Defense, Guam is also a strategic location for sustaining and maintaining United States military presence, deterring adversaries, responding to crises, and maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
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