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Ground-Based Midcourse Defense System

Overview

The GMD employs integrated communications networks, fire control systems, globally deployed sensors, and Ground-Based Interceptors (GBIs) that are capable of detecting, tracking and destroying ballistic missile threats. The GMD element of the Ballistic Missile Defense System provides Combatant Commanders the capability to engage and destroy intermediate- and long-range ballistic missile threats in space to protect the United States.

Our Role

L3Harris supplies the liquid propellant Divert and Attitude Control System (DACS) that maneuvers the Raytheon-built EKV with the precision needed (often referred to as a “bullet hitting a bullet”) to successfully impact and destroy missile threats.

Alternate Propellant Tank (APT): Next generation design propellant tank for the EKV used on the GBI. This design update addressed producibility, material obsolescence, and cost related to the incumbent design.

Alternate Divert Thruster (ADT): Next generation divert thruster (main propulsion) for EKV used on the GBI. This design update addressed a platform stability and reliability concern as well as cost.

Key Features

The GBI is a multi-stage, solid fuel booster with an Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV) payload that uses hit-to-kill technology to destroy incoming intermediate- and long-range ballistic missile threats against the United States and its allies.

Latest News

Satellites hover over earth with dome surrounding United States

Editorial | 04. 07. 2025

Missile Defense for the Modern Age: Scaling Today’s Success While Driving Tomorrow’s Innovation

In an age where hypersonic missiles can travel at speeds exceeding one mile per second, the United States faces a critical inflection point in national security.

Satellites hover over earth with dome surrounding United States

Editorial | 04. 07. 2025

Missile Defense for the Modern Age: Scaling Today’s Success While Driving Tomorrow’s Innovation

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Editorial | 04. 02. 2025

An Innovation Imperative: Advancing the Next Generation of Solid Rocket Motors

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Press release | 03. 26. 2025

L3Harris’ New Advanced Large Solid Rocket Motors Power Successful US Missile Defense Test

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Press release | 02. 20. 2025

L3Harris Breaks Ground on Solid Rocket Motor ‘Factories of the Future’ in Arkansas

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Press release | 01. 06. 2025

L3Harris Completes Sale of Specialized Materials Business to BWXT for Approximately $100 Million

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