Space Systems Command awards second plane of Epoch 1 satellites

Written by Copernical Team Sunday, 27 October 2024 20:39

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Los Angeles CA (SPX) Oct 27, 2024

Space Systems Command (SSC) has secured a second set of six Epoch 1 satellites for the U.S. Space Force's missile warning and defense system in medium Earth orbit (MEO). This acquisition, worth $386 million, was awarded to Millennium Space Systems, Inc. through a firm fixed price other transaction agreement. This contract completes the initial stage of the Epoch 1 program, which will deliv

Space Systems Command awards second plane of Epoch 1 satellites
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Oct 27, 2024

Space Systems Command (SSC) has secured a second set of six Epoch 1 satellites for the U.S. Space Force's missile warning and defense system in medium Earth orbit (MEO). This acquisition, worth $386 million, was awarded to Millennium Space Systems, Inc. through a firm fixed price other transaction agreement.

This contract completes the initial stage of the Epoch 1 program, which will deliver 12 satellites in total across two planes. SSC's adaptive acquisition approach allowed the contract to be awarded quickly, ensuring the program stays within its budget and timeline to meet critical defense needs.

"Once on orbit, Epoch 1 satellites will play a vital role in delivering advanced missile warning and tracking capabilities," said Lt. Col. Nathan Terrazone, materiel leader for the Resilient Missile Warning and Tracking MEO program. "Our commitment is to rapidly deliver operational requirements. Awarding this additional plane lets us do that without skipping a beat."

The program's goal is to establish a resilient missile warning and tracking constellation in MEO, using infrared sensing technology to detect and track various missile threats, including hypersonic and intercontinental ballistic missiles. Satellites will be deployed in successive increments, enhancing the defense network over time.

The first delivery of Epoch 1 satellites is scheduled for the end of fiscal year 2026, with the second plane expected in early fiscal year 2028. These satellites will form the backbone of the missile warning system, leading to the next phase, Epoch 2, by fiscal year 2029. Future Epochs will be introduced every two to three years, further enhancing the system's capabilities.

"We are excited to see what industry offers us for Epoch 2, which will take us to initial warfighting capability in the next few years," Terrazone added.

SSC collaborates closely with the Space Development Agency and the Missile Defense Agency to deploy cost-effective satellites in both low and medium Earth orbits, providing a comprehensive defense solution. Capt. Alexander Siangpipop, contracts branch chief for the Resilient Missile Warning and Tracking MEO program, emphasized that "Partnerships are strong and mission-focused across Government and industry and is how we were able to achieve this milestone."

The Epoch 2 program aims to further expand global tracking capabilities, specifically countering hypersonic and other advanced missile threats, with launches expected in the coming years.

"Our close collaboration with our partners is redefining how we deploy and integrate space systems," said Capt. Michael Gallagher, program manager for the Resilient Missile Warning and Tracking MEO program. "The teamwork in place and the speed at which we are moving is inspiring."

Space Systems Command, as part of the U.S. Space Force, leads the development and acquisition of defense capabilities in space, managing a $15.6 billion budget for the Department of Defense.