The GBI specs I found on the web say it is traveling about 3.4 miles per second. The specs on an IRBM I found say it is moving about 3.1 miles per second. Assuming a nearly head-to-head engagement, that's a closing velocity on the order of 6 miles per second. That's a pretty good clip...
Were previous targets only short to medium range missiles? Maybe the closing velocities/geometries were more challenging this time? Maybe they were trying countermeasures on the target - and they worked.
Regarding your unfounded and unsupported characterization of the contractors working on the project(s)... Have you ever worked on a large defense contract? I have. I have worked both in the DoD and in the civilian/commercial world. In my experience, DoD and their contractor personnel work just as hard as their commercial counterparts, for about the same pay. The main difference I've seen has been working conditions - office space, technology, etc. There, the commercial world has it much better. Before you go bashing people (defense contractors) I suggest you walk a mile in their shoes.
As for the contractors doing missile defense work... Remember, these people are attempting something (and mostly succeeding) that a lot of smart people said was virtually impossible. Yet they are making it happen. Yes, not with a 100% success rate... Let's just hope the idiots in DC don't cut their funding: "Do a better job - with less resources!" Defense is one of the few things the government is doing that it actually has Constitutional authority to do.
See above post. /Thanks
Excellent point, one that many people ignore, particularly those who WANT the tests to fail, and relish the opportunity to take a cheap shot at the people who give this country the tools it needs to defend itself.