Northrop Grumman Corporation, a leading global aerospace and defense technology company, is making significant advancements in the redesign of the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) target vehicle for the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). The new design features a replacement of the target’s heritage Trident C4 first stage solid rocket motor with a Peacekeeper SR119 motor. This upgrade provides extended range, lift capability, and payload capacity for ICBM target missions, enhancing the effectiveness of the nation’s missile defense systems.
The use of virtual and augmented reality technology has played a crucial role in the development of the redesigned ICBM target vehicle. Northrop Grumman leveraged these innovative tools to fully animate and validate the vehicle’s new integration and stacking operations. This approach allows for thorough testing and validation of the new design before its demonstration later this year, ensuring optimal performance and functionality.
By modifying the retired SR119 rocket motor to serve as a first stage motor for the ICBM target, Northrop Grumman has been able to meet mission performance requirements with minimal changes to the motor’s original design. This strategic decision not only enhances the target vehicle’s capabilities but also ensures its longevity to support future missile defense testing. The company recently completed the Critical Design Review of the redesigned ICBM target, with plans for its first flight scheduled in late 2025.
Robin Heard, director of targets at Northrop Grumman, emphasizes the company’s commitment to innovation and affordability in building target vehicles. By combining new and proven technologies, Northrop Grumman aims to create the best solutions to meet customer needs. The redesigned ICBM target represents a balance of capable, government-owned surplus motors and sophisticated front ends to simulate current and emerging threats effectively.
ICBM target vehicles play a crucial role in testing the efficacy of the nation’s missile defense systems, including the Ground-based Midcourse Defense System and Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System. Northrop Grumman, as the prime contractor for the Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile and ICBM target vehicles, has a proven track record of delivering successful launches and supporting the MDA’s testing efforts.
The collaboration between Northrop Grumman, the MDA, and the U.S. Air Force Rocket Systems Launch Program has been instrumental in the development of the redesigned ICBM target. Successful tests, including a static fire of the SR119 solid rocket motor and initial integration pathfinding operations, have validated the motor’s capability for its new application. This demonstrates Northrop Grumman’s commitment to delivering critical capabilities with agility and efficiency.
As a leading provider of threat representative target vehicles, Northrop Grumman utilizes advanced avionics components and adaptable kits to repurpose decommissioned motors and drive down costs for customers. The company’s expertise in developing and testing missile defense systems plays a vital role in ensuring national security and readiness.
In conclusion, Northrop Grumman’s redesign of the ICBM target vehicle represents a significant step forward in enhancing the nation’s missile defense capabilities. Through the use of innovative technologies and strategic partnerships, the company continues to push the boundaries of aerospace and defense technology, delivering solutions that connect and protect the world.
