In a major step toward modernizing the United States’ missile defense capabilities, the Space Development Agency (SDA) has entrusted Millennium Space Systems with a massive $414 million contract to develop eight prototype satellites.

Dubbed the FOO Fighter, this program is not just another name added to a defense roster but a significant move to provide “fire control” for missile defenses, set to launch by early 2027.

Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing-owned company, will be at the vanguard of this project, delivering a constellation of satellites equipped with electro-optical and infrared cameras. These technologies promise to “accelerate the ability to provide new fire control options for the tactical users.”

In essence, the fire control sensors on these satellites are designed for high-fidelity tracking of targets, offering precise coordinates that can be used by warfighters or ground-based weapon systems to intercept threats.

The significance of FOO Fighter, or F2 for Fire-Control On Orbit-Support-To-The-War Fighter, goes beyond mere tracking. These prototype satellites are meant to complement the SDA’s Tracking Layer constellation, which focuses on missile warning and tracking in low Earth orbit (LEO), especially monitoring highly maneuverable hypersonic missiles.

SDA Director Derek Tournear emphasizes the novelty of this program, stating, “The FOO Fighter program will provide an operational demonstration of fire control efforts separate from, but complementary to, our missile warning/missile tracking and missile defense efforts already underway in the tranches.”

This initiative not only represents an enhancement in the United States’ defense architecture but also symbolizes SDA’s expanded role in shaping the operational concepts of missile defense, aligning sensor capabilities with future interceptor requirements.

However, this extension of SDA’s duties has prompted some concerns among members of Capitol Hill, wary that it might encroach on the traditional mission scope of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA).

The selection of Millennium Space Systems as the sole source provider for this contract was a strategic decision based on the company’s proposal, which was deemed the best value.

According to Millennium CEO Jason Kim, “The FOO Fighter may be the World War II term for Unidentified Flying Objects, but this is a no kidding, critical mission that will help protect our country and allies against advanced threats.”

The FOO Fighter program’s distinct objective is to counter unspecified threats that are not addressed by the current Tracking Layer, according to Tournear’s comments at the Potomac Officers Club 2023 Air Force Summit. While classified, the technology, if successful, is expected to be incorporated into future Tracking Layer satellites.

The partnership with L3Harris Technologies, which will provide the payload for Millennium’s satellites, and the commitment to deliver a ground system and perform mission operations, showcases an integrated approach to defense technology deployment.

As the program moves forward, Millennium’s vision of leveraging their “deep knowledge and understanding of this mission” will be critical in crafting the right solutions and employing their innovative common sensing vehicle and core components to meet the evolving defense challenges.

With the FOO Fighter satellites, the SDA is not only looking to boost its defensive posture against advanced threats but also to establish a more proactive role in the interplay of sensor technology and missile interception strategies.

The days leading up to the first quarter of fiscal year 2027 will be pivotal in witnessing how this high-stakes investment will evolve into an essential component of the United States’ missile defense capabilities.