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Ground-Based Midcourse Defense System

Overview

The GMD employs integrated communications networks, fire control systems, globally deployed sensors, and Ground-Based Interceptors (GBIs) that are capable of detecting, tracking and destroying ballistic missile threats. The GMD element of the Ballistic Missile Defense System provides Combatant Commanders the capability to engage and destroy intermediate- and long-range ballistic missile threats in space to protect the United States.

Our Role

L3Harris supplies the liquid propellant Divert and Attitude Control System (DACS) that maneuvers the Raytheon-built EKV with the precision needed (often referred to as a “bullet hitting a bullet”) to successfully impact and destroy missile threats.

Alternate Propellant Tank (APT): Next generation design propellant tank for the EKV used on the GBI. This design update addressed producibility, material obsolescence, and cost related to the incumbent design.

Alternate Divert Thruster (ADT): Next generation divert thruster (main propulsion) for EKV used on the GBI. This design update addressed a platform stability and reliability concern as well as cost.

Key Features

The GBI is a multi-stage, solid fuel booster with an Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV) payload that uses hit-to-kill technology to destroy incoming intermediate- and long-range ballistic missile threats against the United States and its allies.

Latest News

A Green Beret hangs a 60mm mortar round from a M225A mortar system on a live-fire range.

Press release | 02. 17. 2026

L3Harris Marks Delivery of 3 Million Fuzes to US Army

L3Harris Technologies has delivered its 3 millionth M734A1 Multi-Option Fuze for Mortars to the Army, marking a significant milestone in support of U.S. and allied military readiness.

A Green Beret hangs a 60mm mortar round from a M225A mortar system on a live-fire range.

Press release | 02. 17. 2026

L3Harris Marks Delivery of 3 Million Fuzes to US Army

Launcher fires THAAD interceptor missile

Press release | 02. 16. 2026

L3Harris Receives New Contract to Power THAAD Interceptors

U.S. Marine loads a round

Press release | 02. 03. 2026

L3Harris Achieves Record-Breaking Fuzing Delivery Milestone

Chairman and CEO Christopher Kubasik speaks on FOX

Editorial | 01. 13. 2026

L3Harris Chairman and CEO Joins Under Secretary of War in Interview on FOX Business

L3Harris Nexus thumbnail image

Press release | 01. 13. 2026

L3Harris Accelerates ‘Arsenal of Freedom’ with Creation of a New Missile Solutions Company

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