Hawaii missile launch tests shield readiness

HONOLULU — A missile launch next week from Kauai will test the readiness of a planned ballistic missile defense shield for Europe.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reports the launch will take place from the Aegis Ashore site at the Pacific Missile Range Facility.

The equipment and procedures will be replicated for the European defense system scheduled to become operational in Romania in 2015 and Poland in 2018.

Riki Ellison is chairman of the nonprofit Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance. The organization supports a strong missile defense for the United States and allies.

Ellison says the land-based Aegis system will allow NATO “to show its resolve in the defense of Europe.”