target. Discrimination involves sorting valid warheads from decoys such as radar reflectivematerials and dummy warheads which might be flown with the warhead to confuse the defense. Thecomputer in the system will analyze the data gathered. Acting on this information, it willautomatically conduct an engagement from the initial detection of a target through discrimination,guidance of the interceptor missile in flight, and detonation of the warhead of the missile.
One of the two interceptor missiles, the Zeus (fig103), has a long-range capability. It can engage
and
destroy a target outside the earth's sensible atmosphere.The high-acceleration SPRINT missile will be used forshorter range intercepts. With its high-speed digitalcomputers and extremely fast SPRINT missile, the NikeX system will be capable of killing a target withinseconds. In the case of a multiple ICBM attack or anattack involving decoys, the system will be capable of engaging a number of targets simultaneously.
Nike X is the fourth-generation Nike missile system.Its roots stretch back to 1945 when work was started onthe Nike Ajax which became the Nation's first ADmissile system. Development of the Nike X system assuch began in January 1963; however, Nike X evolveddirectly from the Nike Zeus antimissile system which hadbeen in development since 1957. Nike X willrepresent a number of state-of-the-art improvements tothe Zeus system.
During its development program, the Nike Zeussystem achieved a number of test ICBM interceptsinvolving special target vehicles launched by Atlas andTitan I ICBM's. The intercepts were made
by the Nike Zeus system at Kwajalein Atoll in the mid-Pacific. Nike X components are beingtested at several locations throughout the United States. Outside the continental limits of thecountry, tests are being carried on at Kwajalein Atoll in the Pacific. Live firing tests areconducted at White Sands Missile Range and Kwajalein Atoll.
The first test version of the MAR is located at White Sands Missile Range (fig 104), and alater version is scheduled for Kwajalein. Intercept trials, similar to those conducted with theNike Zeus system, will be held at Kwajalein Atoll.
Western Electric Company is the prime contractor for the Nike X system. Bell TelephoneLaboratories is responsible for system design and development. The missile subcontractors areMartin Company, Orlando, Florida, for SPRINT and Douglas Aircraft Company for Zeus. Morethan 15, 000 firms throughout the United States are involved in the development program ascontractors, subcontractors, and vendors. A large number of Government agencies are alsocontributing to the development program.
Figure 103. Nike Zeus missileon R&D launcher.
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