Kwajalein´s new role: radars for SDI

Author

Zorpette, Glenn

Volume

26

Issue

3

fYear

1989

fDate

3/1/1989 12:00:00 AM

Firstpage

64

Lastpage

69

Abstract

The use of the remote Kwajalein atoll as a site for testing of missiles and antiballistic-missile systems is discussed. Major technical renovations of the atoll in preparation for a battery of Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) tests and flights of new missiles are described. Ongoing or planned upgrades include: a complete renovation of the launch pad; a 10 GHz phased-array radar capable of focusing narrowly on a distant cluster of incoming reentry vehicles and expanding its field of view to track the vehicles as they come closer and spread out; and a refurbished range-control center. The radars that provide the signature data formally known as the Kiernan Reentry Measurement Site (Krems), is described in detail. Changes in Kwajalein´s ICBM testing role are also examined.<>

Keywords

antenna phased arrays; missiles; radar antennas; radar systems; test facilities; tracking systems; 10 GHz; Kiernan Reentry Measurement Site; Krems; Kwajalein atoll; Strategic Defense Initiative; anti-ballistic-missile system testing; incoming reentry vehicles; launch pad; missile testing; phased-array radar; range-control center; Assembly; Cities and towns; Inspection; Missiles; Oceans; Radar imaging; Radar scattering; Radar tracking; System testing; Vehicles;

fLanguage

English

Journal_Title

Spectrum, IEEE

Publisher

ieee

ISSN

0018-9235

Type

jour

DOI

10.1109/6.22459

Filename

22459