SUNNYVALE, CA – Lockheed Martin has reached a significant milestone in advancing the first Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) Block 0 satellite. Assembled, powered on, and now entering system-level testing, the satellite is set to bolster the U.S. Space Force’s missile warning and tracking capabilities in an increasingly contested and complex space environment.
This cutting-edge satellite, manufactured at Lockheed Martin’s Sunnyvale facility, is one of two GEO components forming part of a multi-orbit, multi-layer missile defence architecture. The system is designed to detect and deter emerging threats, including ballistic and hypersonic missiles, and ensure global security for the U.S. and its allies.
A Watchman in Orbit
Positioned approximately 22,000 miles above Earth, the Next-Gen OPIR GEO satellite will provide 24/7 surveillance and enhanced sensing capabilities. This geosynchronous orbit vantage point allows for persistent monitoring of threats across the globe.
“Next-Gen OPIR GEO will add strength, reliability, and resiliency to the Space Force’s future missile warning, tracking, and defence architecture,” said Mike Corriea, Lockheed Martin Space’s Vice President for Missile Warning Programs.
The satellite will operate alongside Medium Earth Orbit Track Custody prototypes and Low Earth Orbit Tracking Layer satellites from Space Systems Command and the Space Development Agency, creating a robust, layered defence system.
Built for Resilience
The Next-Gen OPIR satellite combines Lockheed Martin’s advanced LM 2100 bus, featuring enhanced resiliency capabilities, with a cutting-edge Raytheon-built missile warning sensor payload. This integration underscores the program’s rigorous engineering and testing standards, ensuring reliability under the most challenging conditions.
Current testing focuses on system-level assessments, including environmental tests to verify performance in space-like conditions. These milestones are critical as the satellite advances toward its planned 2025 launch.
Integrated Defence Leadership
Lockheed Martin’s expertise spans the entire spectrum of air and missile defence, encompassing satellites, radars, sensors, command and control solutions, and interceptors. This holistic approach ensures a seamless integration of capabilities to deter and respond to evolving global threats.
With the Next-Gen OPIR program, Lockheed Martin demonstrates its commitment to strengthening national security and advancing space-based technologies.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: LOCKHEED MARTIN
