MEADS completes first flight test, demonstrates ability to defeat target at White Sands Missile Range

ORLANDO, 18 Nov. 2011. The Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS) has completed its first flight test at White Sands Missile Range, N.M. The test employed not only the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) MEADS Certified Missile Round, but also the MEADS lightweight launcher and battle manager. An over-the-shoulder launch of the MSE missile executed both unique sideways maneuver and a planned self-destruct sequence after engaging the simulated threat, a target attacking from behind. MEADS—featuring a 360-degree defensive capability, advanced MEADS radars, and the MSE missile—is designed to defend up to eight times the coverage area with fewer system assets and reduce demand for deployed personnel, equipment, and the need for airlifts.

"MEADS demonstrated its ability to engage and defeat a target coming from anywhere using just a single launcher," says Gregory Kee, NATO MEADS management agency general manager. "MEADS lightweight launcher is one of the most advanced mobile launchers in existence today and was designed to be easily adaptable to a variety of vehicles."

"Today's flight test is an important validation for the continuing MEADS development," explains Dave Berganini, president of MEADS International. "MEADS' advanced capabilities detect, track, and intercept tomorrow's threats from farther away and without blind spots. The MEADS digital design ensures high reliability and significantly reduced operational and support costs."