Four companies have been awarded contracts by Space Systems Command to develop ground-based command and control system prototypes in support of missile warning satellites. Ball Aerospace, Parsons, General Dynamics, and Omni Federal have each received a 16-month, $9.75 million Phase 1 contract for the Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution Command and Control (FORGE C2) prototype project.

The goal of the FORGE C2 program is to establish a cyber-secure and open architecture command and control system. This system will be responsible for handling ground control, mission management, tracking, telemetry, and commanding for space assets, including the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared and Space-Based Infrared Systems.

These contracts were awarded under the Space Enterprise Consortium Other Transaction Authority (OTA). The selected prototypes will progress to Phase 2 for further development and testing, which will support the launch of the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) polar satellites.

This initiative marks an important step in enhancing the capabilities of command and control systems for missile warning satellites. By developing a secure and adaptable system, the FORGE C2 program aims to improve the management and control of space assets and ensure the resilience of ground operations. The prototypes developed by the four companies will help pave the way for the future deployment of advanced missile warning satellite systems.