This is a 1/2 scale model of an early 1990s version of the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV), then built by Hughes. Today's EKVs, now built by Raytheon, are the interceptor component carried in the nose of the Ground-Based Interceptor (GBI) anti-ballistic missiles now being deployed in Alaska and California as a defense against long-range ballistic missiles. After the EKV separates from GBI, its infrared seeker acquires and tracks the enemy missile in space and the Divert and Attitude Control System steers the EKV. The EKV does not have any warhead and destroys the missile by actually colliding with it, a concept known as "hit-to-kill." The collision and destruction can occur at combined speeds in excess of 16,000 mph.
Hughes built this model and Raytheon donated it to NASM in 2005.
Display Status
This object is on display in Rockets & Missiles at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
MODELS-Uncrewed Spacecraft & Parts
Manufacturer
Hughes Missile Systems
Dimensions
Overall: 2ft 1in. x 10 1/2in. (base) (63.5 x 26.67cm)
Materials
Plastic and metal model; wood base with metal citation plate
Inventory Number
A20050293000
Credit Line
Gift of Raytheon Company
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.