Aerospace and defense technology contractor Leidos (NYSE: LDOS) has been selected by Sierra Space to deliver flight-proven infrared sensor payloads and onboard signal processing capabilities for 18 missile warning and tracking satellites.

These satellites will support the U.S. Space Development Agency's Accelerated Missile Defense Third Phase Tracking Layer program and provide backing for the "American Golden Dome" missile defense system. The initiative aims to establish a space-based sensor network capable of continuously detecting and tracking hypersonic weapons and other advanced missile threats from low Earth orbit.

Under the agreement, Sierra Space, acting as the prime contractor and mission integrator, will integrate these infrared payloads onto its "Horizon" satellite platform. Leidos' payloads feature onboard digital signal processing that enables tracking data to be generated directly on the satellite, reducing latency and delivering actionable information more quickly to warfighters. Leidos will also provide ground support equipment, mission expertise, and operational sustainment throughout the program's lifecycle.

Cindy Gruensfelder, president of Leidos' defense systems division, stated, "The AMDT3 program will accelerate global missile defense capabilities using mature, proven technology. Leidos has validated these technologies in orbit, and we will collaborate with Sierra Space to rapidly transition them into an operational missile defense constellation to help protect the nation against advanced missile threats."

This AMDT3 contract supplements a $798 million award that the SDA granted to Sierra Space in July. The deal further solidifies Leidos' central role within the SDA's multi-layer tracking architecture. The company has already had four payloads successfully operating in the "Tranche 0" program since 2023, and is currently delivering additional sensors for Tranche 1 and Tranche 2. The SDA expects these satellites to be ready for launch by the end of 2028.