BAE Systems delivers US Space Force missile warning sensor system

Above: Sensor system delivered for full assembly of US Space Force satellite intelligence and defence payload
NGP Sensor.
Credit Northrop Grumman

This milestone delivery keeps the programme on track for full assembly of the payload, known as Flight Unit 1, expected to launch in 2028.

Thai Sheridan, vice president and general manager of Military Space for BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems, said: “We met multiple challenges across a multiyear timeframe to successfully deliver our components for the next stage of full payload assembly. This programme will provide essential next-generation defense and intelligence capabilities for the Space Force.”

The sensor subassembly built by BAE Systems is a significant component of the mission payload and provides the optics, pointing mechanism, controlling electronics and electrical bus interface to the spacecraft.

The sensor system controller interfaces directly to the space vehicle to receive commands and provide telemetry data for the mission. It provides power control and conversion for sensor assembly components as well as high-accuracy mirror direction.

The BAE Systems hardware originally was designed for use with the geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) element of the programme. Featuring a highly adaptable design, the components were able to be repurposed for the NGP mission, allowing the programme to meet challenging schedule needs.

BAE Systems is building a second flight unit for the NGP mission, which is on schedule for delivery in support of an expected launch in 2030.