U.S. company Lockheed Martin has initiated new testing on its geosynchronous orbit satellite to support missile threat defense capabilities. The Company says its Space-Based Infrared System, or SBIRS, GEO-2 spacecraft designed to provide early warning of missile launches is undergoing a series of tests known as the Baseline Integrated System Test phase.

The tests are all part of an effort to demo the satellite's readiness ahead of the environmental test phase, the phase critical in preparation for future launch. "Getting our second satellite integrated and into system testing is a major accomplishment for the program," Lt. Col. Heath Collins, commander, SBIRS Space Squadron, said in a statement. "It couldn't have happened without the skill, professionalism, and dedication of the combined SBIRS team. This is yet one more step towards providing revolutionary missile warning capabilities to the warfighters and national decision makers in the coming years."