Early Warning Satellites: Funding for Follow-On System is Premature

Abstract

This report examined the Department of Defense's (DOD) plans to develop a follow-on system to the Defense Support Program (DSP), including budget implications. DSP is a strategic surveillance and warning satellite system with an infrared capability to detect ballistic missile launches (intercontinental and submarine-launched). It provides near real-time detection information in support of DOD's tactical warning and attack assessment (TWAA) mission. Its primary users are (1) the North American Aerospace Defense Command, which is responsible for assessing potential attacks on North America; (2) the national command authorities, who are responsible for making retaliatory decisions; and (3) other major military commands, which participate in the decision-making process and are responsible for strategic offensive forces.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 1991
Accession Number
ADA242836

Entities

Organizations

  • United States Government Accountability Office

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Air Force
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Ballistic Missiles
  • Congress
  • Defense Systems
  • Detection
  • Detectors
  • Early Warning Systems
  • Government Procurement
  • House Of Representatives
  • Military Acquisition
  • North America
  • Operational Effectiveness
  • Space Based
  • Space Systems
  • Warning Systems

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering.
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Missile Defense Systems.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Satellites