Acquisition of threat-representative ballistic missile targets

Abstract

Test and Evaluation of ballistic missile defense systems under development is required to assess system technical performance, design specifications, and maturity, and to determine if the defense systems are operationally effective, suitable, and survivable against the threat(s) identified in the System Threat Assessment Report (STAR). Acquisition of threat-representative ballistic missile targets that emulate threat systems, as detailed in the STARs, are required to test and evaluate defense systems under realistic operational environments. The evolving ballistic missile threat and the increased proliferation of ballistic missile systems have increased the urgency to develop and field missile defense systems capable of defeating all of these threats. Threat-representative ballistic missile targets and Foreign Military Acquisition targets play a critical role in assessing performance capabilities, system maturity, operational effectiveness, suitability, and survivability during developmental and operational test and evaluation of missile defense systems. This research identifies key management challenges experienced since 1990 by current and former target Product Managers and Project Managers. Recommendations are also included concerning how to manage these challenges based upon the lessons learned provided by experienced Product Managers and Project Managers.