The Sea-Based X-Band (SBX) radar is a midcourse fire control sensor for the Ground- Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) component of the Ballistic Missile Defense System. Installed on a re-locatable semi-submersible platform for siting flexibility, the radar performs the critical functions of cued acquisition, target tracking, discrimination and engagement hit assessment. By providing the radar with a sea-borne mobility, this sensor can be deployed to support either GMD system testing or to provide radar coverage for possible threat missile launches throughout the world.

The GMD System, as well as the SBX component, are being developed under the direction of the Boeing Company, the prime contractor. The radar (known as X-Band Radar or XBR) is being designed, built and tested by Raytheon.

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