Illustration of a Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) satellite. Credit: Northrop Grumman

WASHINGTON — Amid a growing focus on low Earth orbit satellites, the U.S. Space Force is making strides in a more traditional space-based capability: large missile-warning satellites. The Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) program, with an estimated cost of $14 billion, is among the most expensive satellite procurement efforts in the Space Force today.

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Sandra Erwin writes about military space programs, policy, technology and the industry that supports this sector. She has covered the military, the Pentagon, Congress and the defense industry for nearly two decades as editor of NDIA’s National Defense...