The test objectives, were to demonstrate the system's improved
performance including a higher altitude interception of an incoming
target.
The target trajectory demonstrated an operational scenario against
the state of Israel and all the system components performed in their
operational configuration.
The target was air launched toward the Israeli shore. Working as in
operational configuration, the Fire Control Radar (FCR) acquired the
target and sent its data to the Battle Management Center (BMC). A
defense plan was issued and a mission command sent to the launcher.
The interceptor performed successfully and the target was intercepted.
The program is managed by the Israeli Missile Defense Organization in
close cooperation with the US Missile Defense Agency (MDA).
Israel Aircraft Industries / MLM is the prime contractor for the
Arrow Weapon System.
The system consists of the Fire Control Radar (FCR - Developed by
ELTA), the Battle Management Center (BMC - Developed by TADIRAN
Systems), the Launcher Control Center (LCC - Developed by MLM), the
operational launcher and interceptors (Developed by MLM). The target
was a "Black Sparrow" (Developed by RAFAEL).
The System is fully operational, operated by the Israeli Air Force.
The test's success is a major step in the confirming the system
operational improvements to deal with incoming ballistic missile
threats.
December 16 marked the eleventh Arrow Interceptor test and the
sixth of the complete weapon system. It was a routine development
test as part of the ASIP program which is being jointly carried out
by Israel and the U.S.A.