Ground Based Midcourse

MD08 the Ground Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) element of the Missile Defense System, aims to provide combatant commands with a continuously available capability to defend the Homeland against limited Intercontinental Ballistic Missile attacks. This program includes Ground Based Interceptors, GMD Fire Control system (GFC), GMD Communications Network (GCN), In-Flight Interceptor Communications System Data Terminal (IDT), and ground Launch Support Systems (LSS). The program's specific objectives include delivering a single kill vehicle to defeat threat warheads in space during the midcourse phase of the ballistic trajectory and upgrading existing operational IDTs to mitigate obsolescence.

The program also focuses on enhancing weapon system reliability by procuring spare Launch Support System (LSS) kits and processors, as well as operating system upgrade modification kits for operational IDTs. Additionally, it aims to improve the combatant commands' capability by providing long-lead hardware for Ground Based Interceptors. The program's procurement history and planning involve contract awards for boost vehicles and launch support systems, with a focus on cost savings through favorable contract negotiations for silo hardware. These efforts align with the broader goal of ensuring a robust and effective missile defense capability for the Homeland.