Space Force accelerates Missile Warning capabilities
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Mar 04, 2025
The U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command (SSC) is advancing its missile warning and tracking capabilities through the continued development of the Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution (FORGE) Command and Control (C2) ground system. As part of its strategic approach, SSC has awarded a $151 million Other Transaction Authority (OTA) contract to BAE Systems under the Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC) program to further develop the command-and-control solution for FORGE.

BAE Systems will leverage the progress achieved in Phase 1 of the FORGE C2 prototyping initiative to deliver a system capable of supporting SSC's Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) constellation. This system is also designed to maintain support for existing space assets, such as the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS).

"This second phase of FORGE C2 is pivotal in our support of the Next-Gen OPIR program while ensuring continued compatibility with legacy systems like SBIRS," stated Capt. Santiago Duque, chief program manager for SSC FORGE C2.

FORGE represents a fundamental shift in modernizing the Space Force's missile warning infrastructure by incorporating industry-leading methodologies, Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) products, Government Off-The-Shelf (GOTS) solutions, and Free or Open-Source Software. This integration accelerates the procurement and deployment process, ensuring greater flexibility and efficiency.

The second phase of FORGE C2 employs the SpEC OTA framework in partnership with acquisition mission partner NSXTL. This approach facilitates collaboration with non-traditional industry partners, enhances contracting flexibility, and accelerates the transition from legacy systems to a government-owned, open, and scalable architecture.

"Our continued development of the FORGE ground system is essential for introducing advanced technological capabilities at a rapid pace. The SpEC OTA contract enables us to meet this challenge head-on," Duque emphasized.

"Our mission is integral to the next generation of missile warning and tracking architecture, playing a crucial role in safeguarding national security against emerging threats."

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