The Missile Defense Agency’s two space tracking and surveillance system demonstration satellites detected and tracked a Minuteman III ICBM that was launched from Vandenberg AFB, Calif., during a recent test mission over the Pacific Ocean, according to Northrop Grumman. The company is the prime contractor for these satellites, having built them with an industry team including Raytheon. According to Northrop’s July 16 release, the two STSS satellites transmitted tracking data on the Minuteman during the June 16 flight to the missile defense integration and operations center at Schriever AFB, Colo., where the information is being analyzed. Gabe Watson, Northrop’s vice president of missile called the satellites’ involvement “another reliable performance” that is “an encouraging development for the nation’s missile defense system.” Earlier in June, the STSS spacecraft detected and tracked a missile defense interceptor fired from Vandenberg.
Competitors Not Picked for CCA Look Forward to Increment 2
April 25, 2024
While none of the major aircraft contractors were selected to develop the Collaborative Combat Aircraft, all three say they are seeking further autonomous aircraft work for the Navy, foreign partners, or in the classified arena, and maybe future versions of the CCA itself.