The Pentagon is pursuing 18 awards focused on boost-phase space-based interceptors (SBIs) – weapons designed to destroy a missile shortly after launch. Intercepting a missile during this phase is exceptionally challenging due to atmospheric disturbances and reentry heating.
In December, the Space Force requested prototype proposals for space-based midcourse interceptors, capable of destroying ballistic missiles while they coast through space. The Pentagon hasn’t specified how many SBIs it will need for the “Golden Dome” program, or what they will look like. These orbiting interceptors will essentially be flying fuel tanks equipped with rockets and sensors to track targets.
The Space Force and contractors like northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin haven’t released design specifications or the total number of interceptors required for the shield.
