// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM

Next-Gen OPIR

Next-Gen OPIR refers to the newest and most advanced satellite systems designed to detect missile launches and other critical events by sensing their heat signatures from space. These systems are an upgrade to older technology, offering better performance and resilience.

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) systems are advanced satellite constellations employing enhanced infrared sensing capabilities for persistent global surveillance, critical for strategic missile warning, missile defense, and battlespace awareness, designed with increased resilience against emerging threats.

BACKGROUND

Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (NG-OPIR) is a missile warning constellation being developed in the United States as the replacement for its predecessor, the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS). It is expected to be a key part of the Golden Dome weapons system.

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SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • Future OPIR
  • Advanced OPIR
  • NG OPIR
  • Evolved OPIR
  • Next-Generation Missile Warning Satellites

USAGE NOTE

Next-Gen OPIR is a cornerstone of strategic deterrence and early warning, providing crucial data for national security decisions.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Next-Gen OPIR.

  • Lockheed Martin

    A prime contractor for the U.S. Space Force's Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites, developing advanced missile warning and tracking capabilities.

  • Northrop Grumman

    A prime contractor for the U.S. Space Force's Next-Gen OPIR Polar Earth Orbit (PEO) satellites, providing critical space-based infrared sensors for missile warning and defense.

  • RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies)

    Develops advanced infrared sensor payloads and integrated systems for the Next-Gen OPIR program, crucial for detecting and tracking missile threats from space.

  • Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp.

    A key developer of advanced optical instruments and spacecraft, contributing to the sophisticated sensor technologies and platforms required for Next-Gen OPIR missions.

  • L3Harris Technologies

    Provides critical space payloads, electro-optical/infrared systems, and ground solutions essential for the architecture and data processing of Next-Gen OPIR constellations.

  • Space Development Agency (SDA)

    Responsible for developing the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, which includes a missile tracking layer that will complement and integrate with the Next-Gen OPIR system for enhanced missile warning and defense.

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