The growing threat of ballistic and hypersonic missile attacks to U.S. forces and allies underscores the need for a robust missile warning system. In response, BAE Systems is committed to supporting the nation's deterrence strategy by developing a resilient missile warning system.
With a history of delivering mission-enabling payloads, scalable buses for stable platforms at any altitude, we are well-positioned to support future resilient architectures for this critical mission.
Current programs
We were awarded a contract for the Resilient Missile Warning & Tracking (RMWT) – Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) Epoch 2 program, under which we will design and build multiple spacecraft and develop a comprehensive ground system to manage the satellite constellation, providing a resilient, space-based missile warning and tracking capability against ballistic missiles and advanced threats. We are also partnered with Northrop Grumman to develop two payloads for the OPIR program. We are developing sensors for the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command next missile warning system, the free-flyer Next Gen Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) Polar (NGP) Program. A watchful eye in the sky from polar orbits, these sensors will provide OPIR with greater coverage and a clearer view for detecting and tracking missile attacks.
Payloads
We have extensive experience in developing and integrating advanced infrared and hyperspectral imagery payloads for various space-based applications. Our payload solutions include high-performance optical systems, focal planes with advanced sensors, and scalable payload electronics. We also provide low-cost cryocoolers and electronics to support critical payload functions.
Ground systems & software architecture
To design and optimize missile warning mission and space vehicle performance, we use a suite of customized software tools:
- Modeling and simulation dashboards for rapid assessment of missile warning and missile track performance against complex target scenarios with variable space segment capabilities and constellation configurations, including resource tasking and data latency
- TSE for complete radiometric sensor modeling
- PRISM+ASSET simulators to create radiance images with overlaid or embedded objects
- Image Processing Module provides mature Onboard Mission Data Processor (OMDP) framework for image processing algorithms, including registration and clutter suppression
- BOBCAT 2D/3D tracker with modular algorithms and data fusion analysis
- Sim-Lite spacecraft simulator with independent N-body dynamics for line of sight pointing and error analysis, and validated flight heritage algorithms
In addition to our space-based solutions, we excel in ground system integration and software development, serving as the lead system integrator for the Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution Command and Control (FORGE C2) program. Our systems engineering capabilities extend to model-based systems engineering, utilizing the CAMEO environment to manage program development and requirements management integration. By leveraging these advanced capabilities, we deliver comprehensive solutions for space-based sensing, communication, and command and control applications.
Spacecraft
Our Elevation™ spacecraft product line offers a range of standardized, high-performing spacecraft with advanced guidance, navigation, and control capabilities. Our spacecraft supports tactical timelines with secure networking and communications, including encrypted mission data transmission via space ground link subsystems, Ka-band, and optical communication terminals. Click here to learn more about our Elevation™ spacecraft product line.