The first Lockheed Martin-built Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous (GEO-1) satellite is now delivering critical infrared data to users.
The spacecraft is currently undergoing its rigorous operational certification process.
Data from the USAF’s SBIRS GEO-1 satellite will enhance the military’s ability to detect missile launches around the globe, support the nation’s ballistic missile defense system, greatly expand technical intelligence gathering capability, and bolster situational awareness for warfighters on the battlefield.
Lockheed Martin’s original SBIRS contract includes highly elliptical orbit (HEO) payloads, two geosynchronous orbit (GEO) satellites, as well as ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data.
The team is also under a follow-on production contract to deliver additional HEO payloads and the third and fourth GEO satellites, and associated ground modifications.
Australia cooperates on the Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) through activities at the Joint Defence Facility at Pine Gap.
There is no need to build a SBIRS ground station at the facility because the existing Relay Ground Station was designed to accept data from both US Defence Support Program (DSP) and SBIRS satellites.
SBIRS will replace the DSP as the US’s primary initial warning system of a ballistic missile attack on the United States its deployed forces, or its allies.—Sources for this story include Defpro.com and official sources