[Satellite Today 07-27-09] Lockheed Martin’s second Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO-2) payload and ground system modifications for the Space-Based Infared System (SBIRS) have been accepted for operations by the U.S. Air Force, Lockheed Martin announced July 24.
    The acceptance paves the way for U.S. Strategic Command’s formal certification of the HEO-2 system in August. "HEO performance continues to be spectacular," said U.S. Air Force SBIRS Wing Commander Col. Roger Teague, in a statement.
    SBIRS is designed to provide early warning of missile launches, and simultaneously support other missions including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness.