BAE Systems to Develop Ground System Prototype for U.S. Space Force's Missile Warning System

BAE Systems has been assigned the task of developing a prototype ground system for the U.S. Space Force's FORGE C2 project, aimed at enhancing missile warning capabilities.

In a statement on Wednesday, the company confirmed that the U.S. Space Systems Command (SSC) Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC) has commissioned the creation of a prototype ground system for the U.S. Space Force’s SSC Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution Command and Control (FORGE C2) project.

The FORGE C2 initiative seeks to improve the current ground architecture by incorporating newer technologies and architectural approaches. BAE Systems will integrate capabilities into a prototype ground system, enabling the Space Force to manage command and control functions for the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) GEO (NGG) and Next-Generation OPIR Polar (NGP) systems. Additionally, it will facilitate the transition of legacy Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) assets.

FORGE C2 will consolidate functionalities such as telemetry, tracking, command, flight dynamics, mission management, and ground resource management into a unified framework. This framework aims to expedite the integration of next-generation assets as they become operational and enable a unified capability to operate the existing and future OPIR constellation, thereby reducing operational costs.

BAE Systems has been selected as one of four companies to participate in Phase 1 of the project, focusing on the integration and demonstration of prototype capabilities. Upon completion, one or more designs will be chosen for further development and testing in preparation for the first Next-Generation OPIR polar satellite launch, currently scheduled for 2028.