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The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is at the forefront of national security in an incredibly stimulating environment, developing unprecedented solutions to protect our nation's security. Our job is the development of cutting-edge technologies, from advanced sensors and communications, to missile interceptor systems, to propulsion and air-based lasers. Our capabilities-based acquisition process demands a missile defense system that is effective against missile threats of all types and ranges, during all phases of flight.
The basis of the MDA missile defense systems is hit-to-kill technology, or “hitting a bullet with a bullet.” There are many types of missiles in use around the world. Our mission is to develop, test, and field an integrated, layered, ballistic missile defense system (BMDS) to defend the United States, its deployed forces, allies, and friends against all ranges of enemy ballistic missiles in all phases of flight.
The BMDS is layered, using the latest technologies in land-, sea- and space-based radar detection. On its most basic level, your job is to help quickly identify threats, communicate that threat to the appropriate defensive solution, or variety of solutions, and effectively engage the target. All in a minimum of time, with a maximum effectiveness.
And even though the capability has been successfully demonstrated and repeated, you will continue to drive the evolution of these technologies through rigorous real-time testing and evaluation.
Once a ballistic missile has been launched, there are four possibilities for intercept during its flight:
A critical component of this layered system is the technology that links the sensory and response components. The Command, Control, Battle Management, and Communications system unites an incredibly complex suite of sensors and weapons systems. And must do so reliably, repeatedly and effectively.
Few technologies are more advanced or stimulating. It is a challenge that utilizes all your capabilities and talents to the utmost, whether they’re in science, technology or business.