U.S. zaps two medium-range missiles in test of Lockheed systems

The U.S. military on Tuesday conducted its first operational test of Lockheed Martin Corp's THAAD missile defense system paired with the ship-based Aegis system, intercepting two medium-range ballistic missiles fired nearly simultaneously.

The test was conducted early Tuesday near the U.S. Army Kwajalein Atoll test site and surrounding areas in the western Pacific, according to a Pentagon statement.

Missile defense experts and congressional sources said the test was important because it demonstrated the ability of the U.S. military to defend against possible regional ballistic missile threats from countries like Iran or North Korea or even accidental releases.

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