Budget Account
3020F - Missile Procurement, Air Force
Description
The Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) program, now known as the LGM-35A Sentinel, is set to replace the aging Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) system. This initiative is vital for maintaining a safe, secure, reliable, and effective nuclear deterrent. The program's main goal is to deliver a fully integrated weapon system that addresses key capability gaps and vulnerabilities identified in various assessments and development documents. It aims to mitigate the degradation of ground-based deterrents due to the aging components of the Minuteman III.
The LGM-35A Sentinel program includes several critical development phases, such as Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD). During this phase, the Air Force focuses on developing government system engineering capabilities, air vehicle equipment, command and launch systems, infrastructure deployment, support systems, and overall weapon system integration. A significant aspect of this program is acquiring new Aerospace Vehicle Equipment (AVE), which features a boost propulsion subsystem with a 3-stage solid rocket booster and a post-boost propulsion subsystem.
The program also involves converting existing Minuteman III Launch Centers and Launch Facilities across three operational wings to accommodate the new Sentinel weapon system configuration. This conversion is essential for ensuring the successful deployment of the LGM-35A Sentinel. The Air Force is procuring various components such as command and control mission equipment, cryptologic systems, communications systems, and ground control equipment necessary for the survivability and launch of the flight system.
Advanced procurement plays a crucial role by securing long lead materials and components required for production. These include Solid Rocket Motor materials, Inertial Measurement Unit electronics, Missile Guidance Computer components, and other critical parts necessary for timely system deployment. This strategy ensures that all necessary elements are in place to meet initial operational capability milestones effectively.