Next-Gen OPIR Space GEO

The program office is developing the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) (Project 657120) for Guardians across Missile Warning and Missile Tracking (MW/MT) mission area. As a result, the Service will deter, neutralize, defeat and/or destroy counterspace threats and defend the homeland while providing resilient infrastructure, equipment and personnel. Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) (Project 657120): The primary mission is to provide initial missile warning of a strategic missile attack on the US, deployed forces and allies. The Next-Gen OPIR GEO (NGG) missile warning satellites enhance detection and improve reporting of intercontinental ballistic missile launches, submarine ballistic missile launches, and tactical ballistic missile launches. Development consists of new payloads in a highly resilient bus, providing real-time persistent global infrared coverage to meet validated Joint Requirements Oversight Council (JROC) requirements on current and future space domain demands. The Program Office is acquiring the NGG capability in two contract actions. Phase 1 awarded in August 2018 encompasses requirements analysis, design/development, critical path flight hardware procurement, and risk reduction efforts leading to a System Critical Design Review (CDR) in October 2021. Phase 2 was awarded in January 2021 for the manufacturing, assembly, system integration and test, launch, and early on-orbit test through operational acceptance of NGG satellites 1-3. The Department has assessed the third Space Vehicle (SV) is not required as a result of continued positive performance of the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) constellation and the anticipated full operational capability of the Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), Program Element 1206447SF/ Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Program Element 1206446SF missile tracking constellation. As a result, the program has removed the third satellite development efforts. NGG is now a 2 SV baseline. The NGG program has been designated as a Major Capability Acquisition. This program falls within the Missile Warning and Missile Tracking (MW/MT) mission area which provides the multi-orbit space and ground architecture required to detect and track missiles and hypersonic glide vehicles worldwide.