Lockheed built this unflown antiballistic missile (ABM) test vehicle for the U.S. Army's Homing Overlay Experiment (HOE). The HOE vehicle was designed to destroy a missile by physically impacting it - a concept known as "hit-to-kill." After separating from the booster, the vehicle would use its onboard sensors to identify and lock-on to the incoming missile and would use other components to direct it to impact. On the last of four HOE tests, a vehicle intercepted an incoming dummy warhead in the first successful demonstration of hit-to-kill technology in June 1984. The United States is now using much smaller hit-to-kill vehicles in deployed ABMs. Lockheed built this HOE test vehicle, and the U.S. Army transferred it to NASM in 1986.
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
CRAFT-Missile & Rocket Parts
Manufacturer
Lockheed Missiles and Space Division
Dimensions
Overall: 168 in. diameter (at the vanes) x 204 in. long x 36 in. diameter (booster) , 2400 lb. HOE and dolly (426.72 cm. x 518.16 cm. x 91.44 cm., 1088.6kg), HOE weight 1064 lbs
Materials
Overall, metal
Alternate Name
Homing Overlay Experiment Test Vehicle
Inventory Number
A19860223000
Credit Line
Transferred from the United States Army.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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