The U.S. Space Force has awarded Northrop Grumman a $1.8 billion contract extension to begin the production of two early warning satellites.
These satellites are part of the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) program, designed to detect missile threats, particularly from the Northern Hemisphere. This region presents the most direct route for potential missile strikes targeting the U.S.
This contract, announced on October 23, pushes Northrop Grumman’s total project value to $4.1 billion. The initial $2.3 billion contract was granted in 2020 for the development of the satellites. The project has now moved into a critical phase involving the manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing of both the satellites and their ground systems.
The Next-Gen OPIR program includes two types of satellites: geosynchronous satellites, developed by Lockheed Martin, and polar-orbiting satellites from Northrop Grumman. The polar-orbiting satellites will be positioned in highly elliptical orbits, giving them a wide view of the Northern Hemisphere. These satellites, equipped with infrared sensors, are designed to detect potential missile launches and immediately relay data to ground-based stations for further analysis and response.
The first satellite from Northrop Grumman is expected to launch in 2028. The overall Next-Gen OPIR program, with an estimated cost of $14 billion, is among the most expensive satellite procurement initiatives for the U.S. military. Despite a growing trend towards smaller, cost-effective satellites, the U.S. Space Force continues to prioritize high-altitude systems for persistent surveillance of missile threats.