Michael Criss
Description
The Purpose of this thesis is to evaluate the Ballistic Missile Defense Organization's proposals for a National Missile Defense (NMD). This thesis com
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pares the costs of missile systems that will provide a NMD, such as Patriot Advanced Capability - 3 (PAC-3), Navy Area (SM-2 Block WA), Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), Navy Theater-Wide (SM-3), and the Ground-Based Interceptor (GBI). The data gathered for this thesis included unclassified performance data and the gross cost data relevant to the above systems. Interviews were conducted with personnel that are expert in US Navy SPY radar and Aegis combat systems, and have knowledge of SM-2 Block WA and SM-3 missile systems. This thesis concludes that there is redundancy in the development paths to creating a single, centrally located Ground-Based Interceptor and radar (GBI/ GBR) site. By eliminating or amending the 1972 ABM Treaty to allow a multi-site NMD, a Coastal NMD could be constructed in the near future, using technology that is available today and missiles that will be placed on ships starting in 2002. As development of SM-3 and THAAD missile technology continues, these systems could be used to implement a multi-site NMD far sooner than a GBI could.
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