The KE ASAT program has enjoyed considerable progress at low cost. For a total of about $245 million, from 1989 through 1995, the kill vehicle has been developed and produced using existing technology.Two advanced prototypes are now ready for hover testing and flight testing. A proven booster will be used for the flight test series. The weapon control system also was fully developed during this time period.

There are a number of other ASAT concepts, such as space-based lasers, airborne lasers, electronic interference, direct intercept by ICBM, and destruction of satellite ground stations, but all either have serious flaws or are years in the future. Most ASAT concepts are futuristic, while destruction of multiple or mobile ground stations cannot be assured. In contrast, the KE ASAT has been developed from proven technology and the job can be finished, leading to an ASAT capability, in the next three years.