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Built by Hughes Aircraft, this early version of the Lightweight Exoatmospheric Projectile Kinetic Kill Vehicle (LEAP KKV) was successfully tested at the hover facility at Edwards Air Force Base in June 1991. Launched by a booster, LEAP KKVs are designed to destroy an enemy missile in space by physical impact and not by detonation of a warhead. After separation from the booster, the infrared seeker and divert propulsion system help guide it to the enemy missile. Modern versions of the LEAP KKV, now built by Raytheon, are being deployed atop SM-3 missiles on selected U.S. Navy ships to provide defense against theatre ballistic missiles.

This LEAP KKV was donated by the Army Space and Missile Defense Command.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type ARMAMENT-Missiles Manufacturer Hughes Aircraft
 Dimensions Overall (storage case): 1ft 4in. x 1ft x 1ft 6in. (40.64 x 30.48 x 45.72cm)
Overall (LEAP KV): 1ft 4in. x 6in. (40.64 x 15.24cm)
 Materials LEAP KV is primarily metal, with some plastic and glass. Storage case is metal and plastic.
 Inventory Number A20050460000 Credit Line Transferred from the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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