Kwajalein's new role: radars for SDI

The use of the remote Kwajalein atoll as a site for testing of missiles and antiballistic-missile systems is discussed. Major technical renovations of the atoll in preparation for a battery of Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) tests and flights of new missiles are described. Ongoing or planned upgrades include: a complete renovation of the launch pad; a 10 GHz phased-array radar capable of focusing narrowly on a distant cluster of incoming reentry vehicles and expanding its field of view to track the vehicles as they come closer and spread out; and a refurbished range-control center. The radars that provide the signature data formally known as the Kiernan Reentry Measurement Site (Krems), is described in detail. Changes in Kwajalein's ICBM testing role are also examined.<
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