[Satellite Today 06-02-09] Lockheed Martin won a $1.5 billion contract to build the third Space Based Infrared Systems Geosynchronous Earth Orbit satellite, the U.S. Air Force announced May 29.
    The cost-plus, fixed fee basis contract also includes the modification of related ground systems to handle the operations of three payloads simultaneously. Of the total contract amount, $1.1 billion has already been obligated to Lockheed Martin.
    The SBIRS follow-on program, which will complete the SBIRS constellation, will add the third and fourth highly elliptical orbit payloads as well an option for a fourth geosynchronous orbit spacecraft.
     Lockheed Martin said it expects the award for additional spacecraft and payloads in late 2009.

A full feature on the Lockheed Martin SBIRS contract win is available to subscribers of Satellite News, our premium news service. To read the article, subscribe to Satellite News by visiting www.satellitetoday.com/vip