The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) successfully intercepted an incoming ballistic missile threat target during a test conducted from Guam, as announced on a Tuesday. This event marks the first time a ballistic missile defense operation has been executed from Guam.

As the Pentagon continues to develop an integrated air and missile defense system for Guam, this test is part of a future capability aimed at safeguarding the strategic island from emerging threats. The statement emphasizes that Guam plays a critical role in U.S. homeland defense and military presence, aiding in deterrence and crisis response in the Indo-Pacific region.

In the test, the Aegis Guam System, equipped with an AN/TPY-6 radar and Vertical Launching System, engaged a Standard Missile-3 Block IIA interceptor. This interceptor successfully targeted an air-launched Medium Range Ballistic Missile off the coast of Andersen Air Force Base.

The AN/TPY-6 radar, specifically designed for Guam, was delivered earlier this year and tracked the target from launch until intercept. This new radar technology is based on the MDA’s Long-Range Discrimination Radar located at Clear Space Force Station in Alaska, which is set for its own test in the upcoming year.

Lt. Gen. Heath Collins, MDA director, highlighted the collaborative efforts within the Department of Defense to protect Guam. He noted that the data collected from this test will contribute to the ongoing development of the Guam Defense System (GDS).

The GDS is expected to integrate various components across military services, with the U.S. Army assigned in 2023 to spearhead its acquisition and execution plan. The Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office has formed a joint team to oversee this initiative. The MDA’s primary focus is on linking all systems that will comprise the GDS.

Furthermore, the establishment of a combined command center on Guam is under development. This center will integrate major missile defense command and control systems, including the Army’s Integrated Battle Command System, the Navy’s Aegis weapon system, and Air Force command systems.

Experts like Tom Karako from the Center for Strategic and International Studies stress the importance of developing a comprehensive battle management system to effectively address simultaneous air and missile threats.

The architecture for defense will incorporate systems still in development from the Army and technologies from the Navy. Current capabilities are also to be utilized, including the Patriot missile system and the Integrated Battle Command System.

While this test represents progress, Collins mentions that physical changes on the island will be gradual, with military construction expected to begin by the end of 2025.

Jen Judson, the author of the report, is an award-winning journalist with a focus on land warfare, having previously worked for Politico and Inside Defense. She holds a Master of Science in journalism from Boston University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kenyon College.