Raytheon has delivered the second of two advanced infrared sensor payloads to Northrop Grumman Space Technology for the missile-warning Space Tracking and Surveillance System Block 6 program. Block 6 R and D satellites will demonstrate the key functions of a space-based sensor within the Ballistic Missile Defense System, passing missile tracking data to missile defense interceptors with the accuracy and timeliness necessary to enable them to successfully intercept missile targets.
Raytheon is under contract to provide the high-resolution acquisition sensor and gimbaled tracking sensor suite for prime contractor Northrop Grumman Corporation. The payloads are to be integrated by Northrop aboard two satellites as part of an on-orbit missile detection experiment. Raytheon delivered the first payload in March 2006.
The satellite program is part of the Missile Defense Agency's development of a multi-layered defense architecture. Raytheon's Block 6 Acquisition and Tracking Sensor Suite will detect and track targets above and below the earth's horizon from lift-off through their midcourse trajectories.
