Zombie Missile Test Advances US Defense Technology

Missile defense is getting an upgrade. On November 2, the US Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC) launched a “Zombie Missile” from Fort Wingate in New Mexico. This launch sent the target over to White Sands Missile Range, where it tested the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor (LTAMDS). The mission’s goal? Ensuring that the LTAMDS radar system is ready for real missile threats.

What Is a Zombie Missile?

This isn’t science fiction! The Zombie Missile acts as a low-cost target designed specifically for defense testing. By creating a realistic moving target, the test allows the radar to practice identifying and intercepting potential threats. Learn more about this Zombie Missile program and its role in missile defense.

Test director Justin Novak explained, “This missile provides a true threat environment for radar testing.” With this trial, the LTAMDS system demonstrated it can perform well under pressure.

Zombie Missile Test launch in desert at night
Zombie Missile Test launch in desert at night

First Launch from a New Target Launcher

This mission also marked the first use of a new Fixed Target Launcher. Olivia Miller, pad chief for the test, ensured that the launch setup was perfect. “Every launch teaches us more about each team member’s role,” Miller shared, adding that teamwork was essential to this successful test.

For more on related defense technology, check out our latest radar systems updates.

Training Affordably with Zombie Missiles

Stephanie Chrisley, assistant test director, highlighted the affordability and versatility of these targets. The program allows the team to train in varied conditions, enhancing skills without a high price tag. “These missions prepare our teams for a range of scenarios,” Chrisley explained.

This test showed both the technical capabilities and collaborative efforts that support national defense.

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