BAE to Create Next-Gen OPIR Constellation Command, Control Ground System Prototype

The U.S. Space Systems Command has selected BAE Systems to create a prototype ground system under the first phase of the U.S. Space Force’s SSC Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution Command and Control project.

BAE will use its existing capabilities to create a system that allows the Space Force to provide C2 capabilities for Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared geostationary Earth orbit satellites. The system must also allow the Space Force to transition from the Space Based Infrared Systems to the Next-Gen OPIR framework.

FORGE C2 is designed to integrate telemetry, target tracking, C2, flight dynamics, mission management and ground resource management into a single framework that can facilitate rapid integration of next-generation assets. The program allows users to operate current and future OPIR constellations simultaneously, BAE said.

The SSC award adds to a series of contracts BAE received from the U.S. military in recent months.

In February, the U.S. Air Force awarded BAE a contract to upgrade the service’s fleet of EA-37B tactical jamming aircraft. The company was tasked with installing mission systems that allow the service to perform long-range electromagnetic attacks that can disrupt or suppress adversarial air defense, communications, navigation and other electromagnetic warfare capabilities.

In December, the company secured a five-year, $92 million follow-up contract from the U.S. Navy to provide support services for the service’s air traffic control and landing systems.