The Pentagon is planning to shoot down a failed spy satellite expected to hit Earth in early March.

U.S. President George W. Bush has agreed to use a sea-based missile to bring down the broken satellite.

Deputy National Security Adviser James Jeffries briefed reporters on the plan, but did not say when it will be carried out.

After further review of this option (the missile intercept), and in particular consideration of the question of saving or reducing injury to human life, the president, on the recommendation of his national and homeland security teams directed the Department of Defense to carry out the intercept.

The satellite has lost power and propulsion, so teams tracking the satellite have been unable to predict where it might hit.

This will be the first time the United States has used a tactical missile to alter a spacecraft's path.

Officials say it carries a sophisticated and secret imaging sensor, which US officials concern could end up with a foreign power.

It could contain hazardous materials as well.