In the first ever "salvo" firing of a THAAD interceptor, the Divert and Attitude Control System (DACS) developed by Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne successfully positioned the interceptor to destroy the incoming test ballistic missile. Two Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missiles were fired during a test on March 17 from the Pacific Missile Range off Kauai, Hawaii.
"This mission demonstrates THAAD's continued outstanding capability and its ability to help defend the nation," said Craig Larson, THAAD program manager, Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne. "With each successful test, the protection THAAD will provide the American people, U.S. service men and women, and our friends and allies around the world, comes closer to reality."
The DACS is a high-precision, quick-reaction propulsion system that positions THAAD to intercept incoming enemy ballistic missiles. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne is under contract to produce the DACS for Lockheed Martin, the THAAD prime contractor.
THAAD will provide protection to U.S. and allied forces around the world against short to medium range ballistic missiles in the terminal or final phase of flight.
Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, Inc., a part of Pratt & Whitney, is a preferred provider of high-value propulsion, power, energy and innovative system solutions used in a wide variety of government and commercial applications, including the main engines for the space shuttle, Atlas and Delta launch vehicles, missile defense systems and advanced hypersonic engines.