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Precision Tracking Space System Fact Sheet (PDF*)
The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is developing the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) as an integrated system of sensors and interceptors connected by a command and control network to counter the growing threat of ballistic missiles. Since ballistic missiles can cross any and all geographic boundaries on the way to the intended target it is difficult to position air, ground, or sea-based sensors to effectively track them – especially when the optimal location might require host nation agreements. To address this challenge, MDA is developing the Precision Tracking Space System (PTSS) to provide space-based tracking of ballistic missiles, enabling simultaneous homeland, regional, and theater missile defense.
Space-based sensors provide the most cost-effective and operationally suitable means for global persistent surveillance of ballistic missiles. PTSS will augment the BMDS by employing a constellation of infrared sensors that will exploit all the advantages of orbital placement in space for precision missile tracking. PTSS satellites will provide reliable tracking data to the BMDS improving both U.S. homeland defense and defense against large raids as part of the Phased Adaptive Approach. It will meet warfighter needs by providing persistent tracking, addressing the post-boost challenge, tracking ballistic missile objects continuously, supporting object characterization and discrimination, and being an agile, effective sensor against mobile and emerging threats.
With PTSS, the MDA is using a proven acquisition approach – the initial development program is performed by government and trusted laboratories, followed by a competitive procurement with industry for additional production. The program also has embedded military service representatives from the Air Force, and soon from the Navy.