Exo-atmospheric Killer

Fathom

Ballistic missile interceptor. Launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base. California. Destroyed simulated incoming ICBM-like target. Part of Ground-based Midcourse Defense, USA. They played bumper cars. Collided with object in space. Successful test. But reliability against real targets might not be achieved for years.

Capt'n Midnight

https://www.theregister.co.uk/2017/05/31/pentagon_trumpets_successful_mockicbm_interception_test/

As Martin Pfieffer, who Tweets as @NuclearAnthro, put it: “Now do it with one flying faster, carrying chaff, and of unknown launch & trajectory.”

It's yet another prepared missile test. Remember the Patriot missile system had major software bugs. In some case it tried to intercept Iraqi Scuds on a trajectory that would take it below ground level.

Also relevant - the US and Soviet Union had an treaty limiting anti-ballistic measures back in 1972. The rational was that if one side could stop a retaliatory strike then could launch a first strike with impunity. Which the Hawks would love.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-Ballistic_Missile_Treaty

Black Swan

Capt'n Midnight wrote: »

Also relevant - the US and Soviet Union had an treaty limiting anti-ballistic measures back in 1972. The rational was that if one side could stop a retaliatory strike then could launch a first strike with impunity. Which the Hawks would love.

I recall reading about that Cold War arms race between the USSR (CCCP) and Ronald Reagan. Given that the US withdrew from the treaty June 2002 they are now experimenting with this current device.

Fathom

North Korea increased missile testing. Passed 2016 tests. 10 total in 2016. Now 12 in 2017. Only half year. More to come? NK tests providing motivation for US testing of exo-atmospheric killer vehicle?