SBIRS High features a mix of geosynchronous Earth-orbit satellites, highly elliptical Earth-orbit payloads, and associated ground hardware and software. SBIRS High will have both improved sensor flexibility and sensitivity. Sensors will cover short-wave infrared like its predecessor, expanded mid-wave infrared and see-to-the-ground bands allowing it to perform a broader set of missions as compared to DSP. Currently in the engineering, manufacturing, and development phase, the first SBIRS High HEO payload will be operational in 2008 and the first GEO satellite is expected to launch in 2009.
A possible addition to SBIRS is the Space Tracking and Surveillance System. Managed by the Missile Defense Agency, it is a capabilities-based development. STSS will build a few satellites at a time with later satellites being more capable than earlier ones. The program will be fully integrated into the nation's ballistic missile defense system architecture, contribute to MDA's ballistic missile test bed, and focus resources on highest leverage technologies. Using the advantage of a lower operational altitude, STSS will track tactical and strategic ballistic missiles. The satellite's sensors will operate across long- and short-wave infrared, as well as the visible light spectrum. These wavebands allow the sensors to acquire and track missiles in midcourse and during the boost phase, substantially improving the performance of ballistic missile defenses. STSS is expected to launch its first satellite in 2014.
The Space Based Infrared Systems program will provide the nation with critical missile defense and warning capability well into the 21st century. SBIRS is one of Air Force Space Command's highest priority space systems. SBIRS consists of two individual space constellations and an evolving ground element: the Defense Support Program and SBIRS High. These systems are independent yet complement each other by providing global infrared coverage. The program supports four mission areas: missile warning, missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace characterization.
Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] has successfully completed a comprehensive review of improved flight software designed to provide highly reliable command and control of the Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous orbit (GEO) spacecraft.
SBIRS is designed to provide early warning of missile launches, and simultaneously support other missions including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace characterization.