Lockheed Martin has completed the first phase of qualification testing of the second- and third-stage solid rocket motor for the U.S. Missile Defense Agency‘s (MDA’s) Boost Vehicle-Plus program, Lockheed Martin announced Sept. 28.

The Orbus 1A motor was supplied by ATK and fired a week ahead of the baseline schedule. Preliminary results from the static test performed at ATK’s Elkton, Md., facility indicate that the motor met all pre-test performance requirements.

Boeing, who is the prime contractor for the MDA’s Ground-based Midcourse Defense, selected Lockheed Martin Space Systems Co. as the program subcontractor in 2003.In 2004, Lockheed Martin selected ATK to supply sup solid rocket motors to replace Pratt & Whitney, which exited the solid rocket motor business.

Final qualification testing is scheduled for late 2005 and will involve at-altitude static firing. ATK will begin motor deliveries in early 2006.