The program, which employs hit-to-kill technology in its interceptors, has performed well in tests.

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The Kremlin's other demands include access to the core of America's state-of-the-art missile defense systems - hit-to-kill technology that has a host of applications beyond anti-missile missions.

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The fact is that, despite the sort of developmental difficulties to be expected in mastering a challenging new technology like those used in hit-to-kill interceptions, a variety of U.S. theater and national missile defenses have proven effective and will become increasingly so as they are operationalized.

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