During the tests, an ICBM-class target was launched from the Raegan Test Site in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. A ground-based intercepting missile was fired from an air force base in California. According to the statement, the target was hit and destroyed as a result of a "direct collision."
The test marks the first time the GMD has been used against an ICBM-class target. All previous launches have been against intermediate-range ballistic missile targets.
"Initial indications are that the test met its primary objective, but program officials will continue to evaluate system performance based upon telemetry and other data obtained during the test," the statement added.
The test came two days after another ballistic missile launch by North Korea. In response to an increase in Pyongyang’s military activities, Washington has recently been ramping up its presence in the region, including the THAAD deployment in South Korea.
"As the Pentagon reported a missile targeted was successfully destroyed in a direct collision. In fact, this was a typical training launch, routine for the strategic forces. There’s nothing new about it," Zhilin said.
According to him, this entire "spectacle" was staged for taxpayers and to convince South Korea and Japan to pay to the US for protection from North Korea.
"The missile defense system was notified about the launch. The target was acquired in advance and the flight trajectory was known. Thus, the successful result of this show was guaranteed," the expert concluded.
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