MEADS testing authorized

ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 7 (UPI) -- The armaments directors of Germany, Italy and the United States approved a contract amendment that funds MEADS intercept tests.

The amended contract for the Medium Extended Air Defense System also provides for a Launcher Missile Characterization Test and a Sensor Characterization Test before the MEADS Design and Development contract ends in 2014.

The program remains within the funding limit authorized by the three nations in the 2004 MEADS Memorandum of Understanding.

"We remain focused on executing the flight tests approved by the National Armaments Directors on time and on budget," said MEADS International President Dave Berganini. "Our goal is to demonstrate the advanced capabilities of MEADS, including its open, network-centric architecture, non-proprietary software and plug-and-fight capabilities."

MEADS will conduct a launcher missile characterization test at White Sands Missile Range, N.M. To demonstrate the 360-degree engagement capability of the MEADS launcher, the test includes an unprecedented over-the-shoulder launch of a Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement Missile against a simulated target that attacks from a rear quadrant.

Two intercept flight tests are included in the remaining contract scope of work. A first intercept test against an air-breathing threat is planned for White Sands Missile Range in late 2012.

In late 2013, MEADS will conduct a tactical ballistic missile intercept test, preceded by a sensor characterization test. The test series will also demonstrate engage-on-remote, plug-and-fight capabilities, netted/distributed functionality and interoperability through Link 16.

MEADS International, a multinational joint venture with headquarters in Orlando, Fla., is the prime contractor for the MEADS system. Major subcontractors and joint venture partners are MBDA in Italy, LFK in Germany and Lockheed Martin in the United States.