US’ advanced missile warning program gets major boost from next-gen flight hardware, sensors

BAE Systems has delivered key sensor hardware for the U.S. Space Force’s Next Gen OPIR Polar missile warning program.

The shipment includes the sensor subassembly and sensor system controller, clearing the way for payload assembly on Flight Unit 1.

The first payload is still targeted for a 2028 launch, with a second flight unit being built for a later 2030 launch.

The program is meant to improve detection and tracking of ballistic and hypersonic threats, especially over the northern polar region.