Author Description

The DoD has treated ballistic missile defense (BMD) as a priority since the mid-1980s and has invested tens of billions of dollars to R&D such capabilities. In 2002, 2 key events transformed DoD's approach in this area: (1) the Sec. of Def. consolidated existing BMD elements into a single acq'n. program and placed them under the mgmt. of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA); and (2) the Pres. directed MDA to begin fielding an initial configuration, or block, of BMD capabilities in 2004. MDA estimates that it will need $53 billion between FY 2004 and 2009 to continue the development, fielding, and evolution of BMDs. This report assessed the extent to which MDA achieved program goals in FY 2003. Also considers shortcomings in how MDA defines its goals. Charts and tables.