D
SpaceUnited States

Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR)

Missile warning satellite constellationIn developmentPending verification

Also known as: Next-Gen OPIR, OPIR

SpaceUSA
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Fact cardConfidence · Source
System
TypeMissile warning satellite constellation
Alternative designationsNext-Gen OPIR, OPIR
ProliferationOrigin country only
ContractorsLockheed Martin (GEO); Northrop Grumman (polar)Med[1]
Program statusFirst GEO satellite delayed to FY26 by payload issues; FY2027 budget request cancels the polar (HEO) segment; FORGE ground system serves SBIRS and Next-Gen OPIRMed[1]
Orbit
Orbit regimeGEOMed[1]
Summary

Successor to SBIRS with more sensitive infrared sensors to track dimmer targets such as hypersonic weapons.

Draft entry. Values come from the cited public sources and are awaiting editor verification.
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Operators
United States
Sources
  1. Space-Based Infrared System (weapons and platforms entry), Air & Space Forces Magazine
    Tier 3 · checked 2026-11-08
Change log
  • 2026-11-08 Entry created from cited open sources