Boeing Bullish on 'Space Control'

Boeing has come to Paris optimistic that U.S. government-funded missile defense systems will play a more prominent role in its business mix.

This perception comes at time of relative stasis in the manned space market, now confined to the International Space Station and related launch activity. Though Boeing is a prime ISS contractor, little space sector growth is anticipated.

"The space market is flat, but given the Bush Administration's interest, we believe funding for defense systems is likely to increase," says Robert Dean, VP for business development at Boeing's Space & Communications unit.

Boeing is prime contractor for the National Missile Defense program, a $6 billion effort intended to employ ground-based "interceptor" missiles against a limited ballistic missile attack.
The aerospace giant is also developing an array of air and space-based missile defense systems designed to destroy ballistic missiles on the way up, so their warheads fall on enemy territory.
Boeing says it's near to testing its Airborne Laser, to be carried aboard specially modified Boeing 747-400s. ABL will target theater ballistic missiles like the Russian Scud series, used against coalition forces in the Gulf War.

Ultimately, Boeing plans to install powerful lasers on orbital platforms, capable of destroying intercontinental ballistic missiles in the boost phase.