Lockheed Martin conducts Critical Design Review for NGG Block 0
The Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared Geosynchronous Earth Orbit. (Image: Lockheed Martin)
A system-level CDR marks an important step towards the first launch of a persistent satellite capability for missile warning.
Lockheed Martin, together with the US Space Force (USSF), has conducted the system-level Critical Design Review (CDR) for the Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (NGG) Block 0 space programme, marking another significant step towards its first launch.
NGG is the Space Force’s new, advanced space-based missile warning system that incorporates improved warning capabilities as well as enhanced resiliency and cyber hardening.
Under the NGG Block 0 programme, Lockheed Martin and the USSF are developing and building three satellites that provide improved missile warning capabilities and resilience against emerging threats. Carrying new advanced IR sensors that can detect dimmer and faster targets, the first satellite is earmarked to be launched in 2025.
The system-level CDR is the latest milestone the programme has met since the 2018 contract award. Earlier this year, under the oversight of prime contractor Lockheed Martin, NGG completed CDRs for two mission payloads being competitively developed by subcontractor teams Raytheon and a Northrop Grumman/Ball team.
You may also like
More from Defence Notes
-
![Canada set to look away from its neighbour and across the Atlantic for partners]()
Canada set to look away from its neighbour and across the Atlantic for partners
While non-EU UK struggles to join the Security Action for Europe initiative, which provides loans for defence programmes, Canada has become the first country outside Europe to get access – and did so for a nominal fee.
-
![NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems]()
NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems
During the latest edition of the NATO DiBaX, the alliance tested multiple capabilities to inform requirements for future efforts.
-
![Leonardo unveils plans for Michelangelo air defence dome]()
Leonardo unveils plans for Michelangelo air defence dome
The new multi-layered defence system will harness AI to neutralise airborne threats and protect Europe from Russian aggression.
-
![What will next-gen counter-UAS capabilities for the US look like?]()
What will next-gen counter-UAS capabilities for the US look like?
Future US counter-uncrewed aerial system solutions are likely to require a flexible, multi-layered approach to tackle a broad spectrum of new threats as they emerge.
-
![Elbit Systems awarded $2.3 billion contract as results soar]()
Elbit Systems awarded $2.3 billion contract as results soar
The company’s order backlog as of 30 September totalled $25.2 billion and more than a third of this is scheduled to be fulfilled before the end of 2026.
-
![US military foresees growing use of 3D printing]()
US military foresees growing use of 3D printing
Advanced manufacturing has evolved to meet military requirements and now supports multiple US critical assets, including Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, F-18, F-22, F-35, Bradley, HMMWV and Patriot.
