Skip to main content

Space-based interceptors

Division A · Title XVI: Space Activities, Strategic Programs, and Intelligence Matters · Subtitle D: Missile Defense Programs

Plain-language summaryAI

The section requires an independent cost estimate for the space-based interceptor program and mandates that the program meet affordability standards before moving forward. It also prohibits awarding a full-rate production contract until preliminary cost findings and affordability goals are submitted to Congress. Additionally, the Secretary of Defense must certify that at least one successful, operationally relevant flight test has been conducted and provide a briefing on the test details before making production decisions.

AI-generated from this section’s text — a quick orientation, not a substitute for the full text below. Not legal advice.

Section Text · Sec. 1655.
Source →PrevNext

(a) Independent life-cycle cost estimate

(1) Requirement

The Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation shall conduct an independent life-cycle cost estimate of the space-based interceptor program.

(2) Affordability controls

Following the completion of the independent life-cycle cost estimate under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the space-based interceptor program meets affordability controls in accordance with section 4271 of title 10, United States Code.

(3) Submission

The Secretary may not award a full-rate production contract for the space-based interceptor program unless the Secretary has submitted to the congressional defense committees—

(A)

the preliminary findings of the independent cost assessment under paragraph (1); and

(B)

a notification that the goals under section 4271(a)(2) of title 10, United States Code, have been established with respect to such program.

(b) Flight test

In addition to the requirements of section 4171 of title 10, United States Code, the Secretary may not make any decision regarding full-rate production, or equivalent, of the space-based interceptor unless the Secretary has—

(1)

certified to the congressional defense committees that the Secretary has conducted at least one successful operationally relevant flight test of the space-based interceptor; and

(2)

provided to such committees a briefing on the details of such tests, including with respect to the operational realism of such tests.