Missile Intercept Test Fails
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Ralph Scott/MDA Public Affairs(WASHINGTON) — The Missile Defense Agency says a test of one of its ground-based interceptor missiles against a incoming Intercontinental Ballistic Missile, as part of a test, failed on Friday.
The incerceptor was launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The target was a test ICBM launched from Kwajalein Atoll in the Pacific Ocean.
The interceptor that was tested is the same as a dozen currently on watch in Alaska and at Vandenberg to protect the U.S. from a potential missile attack.
Two previous failed tests involved new versions of the missiles, whereas Friday’s failure involved the same systems that are currently used by U.S. interceptors.
Officials say that they will review the test carefully to determine the cause or causes of the failure to successfully intercept the test ICBM.
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