The Missile Defense Agency, in collaboration with U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and other Defense Department partners, successfully conducted a live intercept of a ballistic missile target from Guam. This marked the first ballistic missile defense test executed from the U.S. territory and was a significant step in the defense of Guam. The test involved the Aegis Guam System integrating with a specialized radar and vertical launching system, which fired a Standard Missile-3 Block IIA to intercept an air-launched medium-range ballistic missile target off the coast of Guam’s Andersen Air Force Base.
Designated as Flight Experiment Mission-02, the test supported the overall concept, requirements validation, data-gathering, and model maturation for the future Guam Defense System. This successful test demonstrated the collective effort of various organizations within the Department of Defense to defend Guam now and in the future. MDA Director, Air Force Lt. Gen. Heath Collins, emphasized the importance of the test in building upon and validating joint tracking architecture and integrated air and missile defense capabilities for Guam, thanking all those involved, especially the people and government of Guam.
Commander, Joint Task Force-Micronesia Navy Rear Adm. Greg Huffman, highlighted the significance of the test in confirming the ability to detect, track, and engage a target missile in flight, thereby increasing readiness to defend against evolving adversary threats. The success of the event was attributed to the incredible work of the team within the DOD and the government of Guam. The flight test, initially proposed by MDA in early June, underwent an extensive environmental assessment/overseas environmental assessment before being approved, with plans to conduct up to two flight tests or tracking exercises per year over the next decade.
The live intercept of a ballistic missile target from Guam represented a critical milestone in the defense of Guam and the region. The successful test confirmed the effectiveness of the integrated air and missile defense capabilities, showcasing the readiness to defend against potential threats. The event was a testament to the collaborative efforts of various organizations within the Department of Defense and the government of Guam, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening defense systems and ensuring the security of the region. Moving forward, MDA plans to continue conducting flight tests and tracking exercises to further enhance the defense capabilities of Guam and address evolving threats.
