October 24, 2021
The U.S. Air Force Wants Better Infrared Technology—Here’s Why
Next-generation Overhead Persistent Infrared includes several key upgrades over the existing Space-Based Infrared Satellites.
by Kris Osborn
Here's What You Need To Know: The Defense Department is moving quickly to deploy this new missile detection technology given the seriousness of the growing Chinese missile threat.
The Defense Department is accelerating a new program intended to bring an entirely new dimension to missile warning operations, by engineering a new Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) detection system intended to both identify the heat signature generated by the launch of an enemy missile as well as establish a flight track of a threat as it transits through space.
Developers say next-generation OPIR includes several key upgrades over the existing Space-Based Infrared Satellites (SBIRS). First, OPIR detects more missiles including dimmer and quicker boosting types. Second, it provides coverage of missile targets with higher accuracy by using a more sensitive, accurate and faster frame rate sensor. Third, its sensors can resolve multiple targets with an image that is 25 percent better quality than SBIRS that improves incoming missile target counting. Finally, the hardened spacecraft includes modern cybersecurity plus significant other measures for added resiliency and survivability against potential adversary space capabilities.
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