The concept involves placing a large number of satellites equipped with missile defense systems in orbit.
Northrop Grumman has accelerated the development of a next-generation space-based missile defense system. As part of a new collaboration with satellite manufacturer Apex Space, the company intends to conduct an orbital demonstration of space interceptor technologies for the 'Golden Dome' initiative by 2027.
The project is part of a broader program to create a layered missile defense system for the United States, capable of detecting and destroying missiles while still in flight using assets deployed directly in orbit.
At the center of the project are the so-called Space-Based Interceptors (SBI) — space interceptors. The concept involves placing a large number of satellites equipped with missile defense systems in orbit, which will be able to target ballistic and other types of missiles.
Northrop Grumman stated that it combines its own years of experience in missile defense with the manufacturing capabilities of Apex, which specializes in mass-producing satellites.
The goal is to create technologies suitable not only for demonstration tests but also for the subsequent deployment of full-scale orbital constellations.
According to the company, a number of key ground tests have been successfully completed this year. Developers claim they are on schedule and expect to launch a demonstration model into orbit in 2027.
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