Multiple Kill Vehicle (MKV)
O
verview: The Multiple Kill Vehicle (MKV) system allows more than one kill vehi
cle to b
e launched from a single booster. The system consists of a carrier vehicle with on board sensors and a number of small, simple kill vehicles that can be independently targeted against objects in a threat cluster. The integrated payload is designed to fit on existing and planned interceptor boosters.
Description: The MKV system includes a carrier vehicle with on-board sensors and kill vehicles weighing approximately 10 pounds.
Benefits to the BMD System:
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Increases firepower, allowing multiple kill vehicles on a single target and reducing dependence on a priori target information
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Increases mission flexibility
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Works within existing/planned Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) System
Relevance: The MKV is consistent with MDA’s layered approach to BMD because it provides as many opportunities as possible to destroy an incoming missile. The system will enhance MDA’s Ground-based Midcourse Defense element.
Status:
In early 2004, MDA awarded a system development contract to Lockheed Martin. A critical design review is scheduled for late 2004, hover tests in 2005/2006, flight tests begin in 2007, and intercepts versus multiple targets occur in the system flight testing in 2009.