WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 (Xinhuanet) -- In a new test called as a big success for its sea-based missile defense system, the US military said an interceptor missile fired from a US Navy ship shot down a mock warhead off Hawaii Thursday.

    As it separated from its booster rocket, the warhead was successfully intercepted and destroyed by the guided interceptor missile from cruiser USS Lake Erie.

    US military said it is the first time a ship at sea has shot down a multi-stage missile.

    US official said the test is crucial because medium- and long-range ballistic missiles typically have at least two stages and intercepting such missiles after they separate is difficult because sensors must be able to distinguish between the body of the missile and the warhead.

    In comparison, all previous tests of the US sea-based missile defense system only involved short-range missiles that stay intact.

    Previously the US military said its ground-based missile defense system in Alaska has successfully intercepted separating targets in five out of eight attempts. Enditem