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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 Rotating Detonation Engine being hot fire tested at Purdue University’s Zucrow Laboratories.

Editorial | 05. 20. 2026

L3Harris Achieves Major Milestones With Latest Series of Rotating Detonation Engine Tests

Inside L3Harris’ latest propulsion milestone and what it means for next‑generation missile systems.

A Rotating Detonation Engine being hot fire tested at Purdue University’s Zucrow Laboratories.

Editorial | 05. 20. 2026

L3Harris Achieves Major Milestones With Latest Series of Rotating Detonation Engine Tests

Nexus Background Stealth

Press release | 04. 29. 2026

L3Harris Announces Confidential Submission of Draft Registration Statement for Proposed Initial Public Offering of Missile Solutions Business

Nexus Background Stealth

Press release | 04. 23. 2026

L3Harris Closes $1B Investment from Department of War in Missile Solutions Business

ATACMS missile fires from launcher

Press release | 04. 20. 2026

L3Harris Receives Rocket Motor Contract for US Long-Range Missile System

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger, L3Harris VP Mark Farley, and state and local leaders make announcement

Press release | 04. 15. 2026

L3Harris Announces Billion Dollar Expansion to Boost Solid Rocket Motor Production in Orange County, Virginia

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