GBSD program completes integrated baseline review

The Air Force's Ground Based Strategic Deterrent program has completed an integrated baseline review, establishing key cost and milestone dates as the program moves forward, according to a press release issued today by GBSD prime contractor Northrop Grumman.

The review occurred in early March, about six months after Northrop won an award to develop the new intercontinental ballistic missile system, company spokesman Nathan Drevna told Inside Defense today.

“Given the sheer size and importance of schedule integration, we had to be agile in meeting this critical milestone, there is no margin for delay,” Steve Lunny, vice president of the GBSD program at Northrop, said in the release. “Early on, we worked with the Air Force shoulder-to-shoulder in a virtual setting to engage at a deeper level and share critical insights throughout IBR to mitigate risks, arrive at a common baseline and ultimately save time.”

The program, which is intended to replace the legacy Minuteman III ICBM system, is on track to reach initial operational capability in 2029, the notice adds.