Prime contractor Lockheed Martin [LMT] has delivered the first geosynchronous (GEO-1) Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) spacecraft to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., in preparation for an early May launch aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V launch vehicle, the company said last week.
ULA is a Lockheed Martin-Boeing [BA] joint venture.
SBIRS is the next-generation U.S. early missile warning system. It is slated to replace the legacy Defense Support Program constellation. SBIRS has both scanning and staring sensors and is expected to provide new tactical support capabilities in addition to its strategic mission.
SBIRS GEO-1 will be prepared for liftoff at the station’s former Defense Satellite Communications System processing facility, which, according to Lockheed Martin, was upgraded in preparation for GEO-1. Facility upgrades were made to the electrical power supply, communication networks, environmental control systems and cleanroom processing areas. A new access road was also built from the landing strip directly to the facility, which significantly reduces transport time and risk moving through traffic areas.
Before launch, the spacecraft will undergo post-shipment testing, fueling and payload fairing encapsulation in the facility. It will then be mated to Atlas V launch vehicle and perform final integrated testing.
SBIRS Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO) payloads have already been launched aboard classified satellites.
Lockheed Martin’s original SBIRS contract includes HEO payloads, two GEO satellites, as well as ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data. The company is also under a follow-on production contract to deliver additional HEO payloads, third and fourth GEO satellites and associated ground modifications.
GEO-2 is scheduled for launch next year, according to Air Force Space Command.
Northrop Grumman [NOC] is the SBIRS payload integrator, and Air Force Space Command is the operator.