FTG-12 GROUND-BASED INTERCEPTOR LAUNCHES FROM VSFB
A Ground-based Interceptor, an element of the overall Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system, launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif., Dec. 11, 2023, at 6:38 a.m. PT, by Space Launch Delta 30 Guardians, Airmen and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency. MDA will use the test results from this launch to improve and enhance the GMD element of the Missile Defense System, designed to defend the United States, its deployed forces, allies and friends from limited ballistic missile attacks of all ranges in all phases of flight. (U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Kadielle Shaw)