Sierra Space Selects Leidos for Missile Defense Tracking Layer

Sierra Space has selected Leidos Holdings Inc. to provide infrared sensing payloads and onboard signal-processing capabilities for the Accelerated Missile Defense Tranche 3 Tracking Layer. These technologies will be integrated into 18 missile warning and tracking satellites designed to detect hypersonic and advanced missile threats from low Earth orbit.

The project is part of the Space Development Agency's proliferated architecture. Beyond the satellite payloads, Leidos will supply ground support equipment and manage sustainment operations. This contract extends the company's existing partnership with the Space Development Agency, following previous deliveries for Tranche 0, 1, and 2.

Cindy Gruensfelder, President of Leidos Defense, stated that the project will build upon proven technologies to accelerate global missile defense capability and transition those capabilities into an operational constellation. The financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.