Debris from Ballistic Missile Defence: An Analysis Tool for Policy/Planning Studies

Abstract

Several Ballistic Missile Defence Systems currently in development worldwide will rely on hit-to-kill interceptor technology to disable or destroy ballistic missiles and re-entry vehicles. Hit-to-kill interception at the very high speeds encountered in the missile regime will likely result in fragmentation of both the interceptor and the target missile. The fragments will then fall to Earth to form a debris field. This technology raises questions within the policy and strategy arenas. This Project Report describes the processes responsible for debris field formation. It also introduces a computer-based model which simulates the fragmentation process and the creation of a debris field. The model is intended as an analysis tool to support investigation for potential policy/planning questions, or to serve as a precursor to more detailed engineering studies.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 01, 1995
Accession Number
ADA640730

Entities

People

  • Gregory W. Frank

Organizations

  • Department of National Defence

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Defense
  • Anti-Ballistic Missiles
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Ballistic Missiles
  • Defense Systems
  • Detectors
  • Engineering
  • Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles
  • Kill Vehicles
  • National Security
  • Operations Research
  • Simulations
  • Strategic Weapons
  • Theater Ballistic Missiles
  • Theater Missile Defense
  • Warning Systems
  • Weapons Effects

Readers

  • Missile Defense Systems.
  • Organizational Process Management (OPM).
  • Theoretical Analysis.