Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) system of systems

The Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) is the modern, cost effective follow-on to the Defense Support Program (DSP). SBIRS will support four broad mission areas: missile warning, missile defense, technical intelligence, and battlespace characterization. Like DSP, SBIRS will provide missile launch warning and attack assessment to the strategic and theater command centers. SBIRS additionally supports national and theater missile defense as well as technical intelligence and battlespace characterization. The SBIRS architecture includes constellation of satellites in high and low altitude orbits. Four satellites in geosynchronous (GEO) orbit and two sensors on multi-mission satellites in Molniya orbit (HEO, Highly Elliptical Orbit) comprise the high altitude component of the constellation. The Low Earth Orbit (LEO) configuration has not yet been selected, but it will likely include from eighteen to forty satellites. The SBIRS processing and reporting will be consolidated at a Mission Control Station (MCS) in the Continental United States (CONUS). The MCS will be developed first and go on-line in 1999 to support the DSP system; the high altitude satellites will be developed and launched next, starting in 2002; and the low altitude satellites will be launched last, starting in 2006. Lockheed-Martin will develop the SBIRS System of Systems and High Component. The SBIRS system Of systems architecture is referred to as "High now, Low later".