General Atomics Infrared Payloads to Boost U.S. Space Missile Tracking Network

On April 21, 2026, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems was selected by Lockheed Martin to supply infrared payloads for a new group of missile-tracking satellites under the Tracking Layer Tranche 3 program. The system is designed to improve how quickly and accurately threats, including advanced hypersonic missiles, are detected.

The payloads use advanced electro-optical and infrared sensor technologies capable of detecting and tracking missiles from space with high precision. These sensors provide continuous global coverage and low-latency tracking, which supports real-time targeting decisions.