Missile Defense Test Blocks Missile, Can it Block Criticism?

The U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) performed a successful test of the Ground-based Missile Defense (GMD) system on Tuesday. This was the first test of the GMD that simulated the intercept of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The GMD is the United States’ only system that can defend against long-range missiles from North Korea or other adversaries.

In a prepared statement, MDA Director Vice Admiral Jim Syring called the test “an incredible accomplishment for the GMD system and a critical milestone for this program,” adding, “This system is vitally important to the defense of our homeland, and this test demonstrates that we have a capable, credible deterrent against a very real threat.”