MEADS Funding Decision Imminent

A final decision regarding funding for the final test phase of the Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS) could be made within the next two weeks, MEADS International has stated.

According to Marty Coyne, director for business development at MEADS International, the US Senate's appropriations committee is expected to make a decision regarding the final $401 million investment required to complete testing by 2013. 'The US still has to appropriate funds for FY13 but if a nation defaults on the MoU, the US would be required to pay money committed to one way or another,' Coyne described.

Having completed its maiden test in November last year, the final phase of tests are scheduled to incorporate the interception of a Cruise missile threat later this year, followed by a tactical ballistic missile interception in 2013. However, funds are secured for the first intercept test.

Other capabilities still to be demonstrated include engage-on-remote; plug and fight; netted/distributed functionality; and interoperability via Link 16. All remaining tests will take place at White Sands Missile Range and will incorporate the battle management system, launcher, missile and tracking radar capability.

MEADS comprises a tri-lateral development, which also includes Italy and Germany, intent on developing a 360-degree air and missile defence system. 'The debate is ongoing,' Coyne asserted. However, he conceded that three previous committees including the House Armed Services committee had already recommended to 'zero' final phase funds this year.

Following the signature of the $3.4 billion contract in 2004, the US elected in February 2011 to discontinue funds for the programme. All three member nations then agreed to complete a 'proof of concept' to include a final phase of flight test and two intercepts.

'All three nations will be satisfied they have met the needs of the MoU and all three will have access to the technology,' Coyne said while describing how MEADS International would continue to pursue US Army requirements for its Integrated Air Missile Defense (IAMD) network.

Elsewhere, he said Germany was currently in the midst of formulating its Air Defence 2020 study comprising its 'vision for a networked approach'.Finally, he said Italy still planned to 'pursue' a complete MEADS solution beyond completion of the test phase.