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Links: Polyphonic Ringtones |
Key Messages The Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) combines national and DoD infrared detection systems into a single architecture, fulfilling the nation's missile warning and defense, technical intelligence, and battlespace characterization requirements. This newly emerging capability will greatly enhance the tools that national policy-makers and unified and theater commanders have at their disposal to provide Integrated Tactical Warning/Attack Assessment information to verify an adversary's technical ability, strength, disposition of forces, and even the intensity of combat operations. SBIRS is a coordinated effort to provide a balance between requirements and affordability. It will provide an effective transition from the Defense Support Program (DSP) to an improved system that meets a wider range of theater and national support needs. Program Description and Key Points SBIRS is a consolidated, cost-effective, flexible system that will meet United States infrared space surveillance needs through the next two to three decades. SBIRS is an integrated "system of systems" that includes multiple space constellations and an evolving ground element. The architecture includes satellites in Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO), sensors hosted on satellites in Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO) and ground data processing and control assets. The "system of systems" approach integrated previously independent infrared sensor programs resident in the Air Force and intelligence space communities and eliminated duplicative efforts. SBIRS incorporates new technologies that enhance detection, improve reporting of intercontinental ballistic missile, sea-launched ballistic missile and theater ballistic missile launches, and provide critical mid-course tracking and discrimination data for national and theater missile defense. 
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