Why would anyone want a missile that flies without a warhead? Nobody, unless it's a demonstration flight working toward a production model. Then First Flight, which flies with an inert warhead, is a significant milestone. It demonstrates that flight control systems are all functioning properly.
Everyone wants what you describe as a final result; that IS the idea. We get there in small steps, not in one great leap. This is a very important proof-of-concept demonstration.
BTW, here's another article with some screenshots: http://www.reghardware.co.uk/2006/03/16/mac_boots_xp_contest_won/