A $15 million contract to develop advanced infrared focal-plane arrays (FPAs) for U.S.A.F. missile defense surveillance satellites has been awarded to BAE Systems. This contract is part of the Air Force Research Laboratory‘s High Stare program. This is a five year project to develop high-performance, large-format, shortwave infrared FPAs for Air Force missile-warning satellites. The arrays developed under this program will serve as the eyes for future missile warning satellites. The FPAs will absorb infrared radiation and convert it into electrons to form an image. Large-format arrays will enable future missile defense systems to instantaneously see a larger portion of the earth using a less complex system than the current one.
Paul LoVecchio, Director of Advanced FPA products for BAE Systems, said, “This order will enable our semiconductor foundry to produce larger, more sensitive, and more efficient focal-plane arrays that address critical military needs in the areas of missile defense and battlespace characterization. These advanced FPAs will help reduce the complexity, weight, and power — and ultimately, cost — of future missile defense satellites.”—Lexington, Massachusetts
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