Next-Generation Missile Warning Satellite Expected to Launch on Schedule Despite Developmental Delays

Technical problems are continuing to slow the development of the next generation of U.S. missile launch-detection satellites, but the delays will not cause significant cost overruns, Space News reported Monday (see GSN, Sept. 16).

The Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS)-High will probably require tens of millions of dollars more than planned, said the satellite’s program manager Air Force Col. Mark Borkowski. That amount, however, is insignificant in comparison to the project’s total cost, Space News reported.

The six-satellite constellation is intended to replace the existing missile launch-detection network, called Defense Support Program satellites. Once planned to cost $2.1 billion with a first launch in 2002, the SBIRS-High program is now expected to cost $8 billion and to put the first satellite in orbit in October 2006. Borkowski said recent technical problems would not necessarily affect the launch schedule.

Current technical difficulties include a sensor that can suffer radio signal interference, software problems and other minor troubles, Borkowski said (Jeremy Singer, Space News, Oct. 20).

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