Pentagon to launch satellites that recognize real nuclear warheads
By ForGeeks The U.S. Department of Defense is preparing to launch a new constellation of satellites capable of distinguishing real nuclear warheads from decoys. The first wave of DSS (Discrimination Space Sensor) satellites is expected to enter orbit by 2029.
What DSS is and why it’s needed
The development is underway as part of the missile defense project “Golden Dome” initiated by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The main goal is to improve the accuracy of intercepting intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
Today’s SBIRS early warning satellites detect missile launches, but cannot accurately determine where the real warhead is and where the decoy is. DSS is designed to bridge this gap. The new type of sensor will ensure targeting only real threats, significantly reducing the chance of misses.
“We are building DSS prototypes to make the United States more resilient to ballistic threats in the future,” said Lieutenant General Heath Collins, head of the Missile Defense Agency.
How the new system will work
DSS will be part of a multi-layered space tracking and interception system. Exact technical details have not been disclosed, but it is known that the satellites will work in conjunction with ground-based missile defense and early warning systems.
In contrast to SBIRS, DSS does not simply capture the heat signatures of a launch, but analyzes the trajectory, velocity and structure of an object to determine its authenticity. This is especially important when deflecting massive attacks with multiple decoys.
What’s next
The first launch of satellites with DSS technology is scheduled for 2029. The project will be one of the key elements of the future U.S. defense architecture in space and may be continued in the form of new orbital platforms with artificial intelligence elements.
The Pentagon to launch satellites that recognize real nuclear warheads was first published on ITZine.ru.
