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MINNEAPOLIS, 15 Nov. 2008. Alliant Techsystems test-fired a Kinetic Energy Interceptors (KEI) first stage solid rocket motor at its Promontory, Utah facility. The KEI weapon system, under development by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA), represents the next generation of high-speed missile defense, enabling a mobile capability that can address multiple classes of threats.
This test was performed at cold temperatures to simulate rocket motor performance in one of several possible launch environments, says a representative. KEI will be capable of launching in multiple climates around the world. ATK conducted a second stage KEI test at similar temperatures. These tests will lead to a full booster flight scheduled for 2009.
"This global missile defense system will allow the United States to rapidly respond to a threat world-wide, protecting the nation and its allies," says Bill Condas, ATK vice president of strategic systems. "This test is another milestone towards providing the country a state-of-the-art defense system."
ATK is the propulsion subcontractor on the KEI program. As a member of the KEI team, ATK produces the stage 1 and stage 2 rocket motors for the integrated flight vehicle. The KEI canister launch eject gas generators will also be produced by ATK.
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