LGM-30G Flight Test Telemetry and Termination System (FT3)

Abstract

The FT3 Program replaces the Mod 7 Instrumentation Wafer and associated Signal Conditioner Monitor Group, and All Ordnance Destruct System (AODS) with a flight test kit. In addition, a replacement of the Launch Support System (LSS) is required to deploy the flight test kit. The flight test kit consists of the Flight Destruct System (FDS) and an Integrated Instrumentation System (IIS). In addition, replacement of the IIS is necessary to meet Space Launch Delta 30th Space Wing Range Safety and Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) requirements and resolve obsolescence concerns/issues. The AODS, Mod 7 Instrumentation Wafer, and LSS include components that are not economically available, are no longer compliant with applicable range safety requirements, or are in need of technical modernization. Replacement of the Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB) flight test unique equipment is necessary to sustain future AFGSC Operational Test Launches (OTL), which support US Strategic Command requirements starting in FY22. The OTLs are critical to validating the continued accuracy and reliability of the MM III weapons system until the Sentinel is fielded by providing valuable data to ensure a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent. The FT3 systems will perform the same function as the existing systems with upgraded design features in order to comply with U.S. Space Force Range Safety User Requirements, Range Commander's Council (RCC) 319, Flight Termination Systems Commonality Standard, and RCC 324, Global Positioning and Inertial Measurements Range Safety Tracking Systems' commonality standard. In February 2020, the FT3 program began executing a rapid fielding plan to meet a requirement to be first launch ready, September 2022. A successful first flight (GT 244) occurred on 7 September 2022. Rapid Fielding execution increased concurrency of technical milestones, delaying some noncritical activities to be completed after the first flight.

Document Details

Document Type
Accomplishment
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2025
Source ID
c233068170fa6ae3edd46a03f716b21f

Tags

Readers

  • Civilian Systems Systems Program Capability Development and Upgrade Support Activity Expense and Pay Management.
  • Missile Defense Systems.
  • Software Engineering

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Satellites

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