On April 24, the U.S. Space Force announced the establishment of the Space-Based Interceptor (SBI) program, “which is tasked to develop a space-based missile defense interceptor system that will demonstrate capability integrated into the GDA (Golden Dome of America) architecture by 2028,” the service said in a [https://www.ssc.spaceforce.mil/Newsroom/Article-Display/Article/4470337/space-forces-space-based-interceptor-program-to-counter-growing-speed-and-maneu] press release issued under the name of the Space Systems Command.
“The global strategic landscape has changed, a new generation of threats hold the homeland at risk,” the release claims. “Proven and formidable U.S. missile defense systems, combined with next-generation space-based tracking and advanced interceptors must be integrated with Artificial Intelligence to counter thespeed, maneuverability, and lethality of the threats. The USSF SBI program is addressing this gap by developing a proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) constellation of interceptors capable ofboost, midcourse, andglide phaseengagements.”
Space.com, in a news report posted on April 30, notes that many of the technical details surrounding how Space Force plans to defeat hypersonic weapons from orbit remain unknown. “Critics have pointed out that it would require a constellation of potentially tens of thousands of satellites to defend against even 10 missiles, not to mention the fact that no one has ever seen such a capability demonstrated,” it says.
