Lockheed Martin Develops Next Gen OPIR GEO for Missile Tracking as Threats Grow More Complex
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Nov 9
Lockheed Martin Develops Next Gen OPIR GEO for Missile Tracking as Threats Grow More Complex
1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Nov 9
Summary
Lockheed Martin said it is developing Next Gen OPIR GEO with the U.S. Space Force to strengthen space-based missile warning and tracking from geosynchronous orbit.
The system is aimed at faster, more resilient detection of dim, high-speed and maneuvering threats — including hypersonic glide vehicles — using modern infrared payloads and onboard data processing.
Mission testing has shown significant gains over the current SBIRS system in approved performance areas, while a next-generation ground architecture is being built to handle larger sensor-data volumes for quicker decisions.
Built on the LM 2100 Combat Bus, the satellites are designed with cyber resilience, stronger communications, added power and propulsion, and continuity features for contested space environments.
SBIRS will keep handling traditional ballistic-missile warning as Next Gen OPIR GEO extends that architecture toward future missile-warning and tracking needs.