BAE Systems will develop a new radar warning receiver prototype that can identify radio frequency and communications activity in real time.

The U.S. Air Force awarded BAE Systems a $6.3 million contract to support its Satellite Awareness and Protection program, an initiative to develop better mechanisms to warn and protect satellites against attack.The three-year contract calls for BAE Systems to develop a low-cost receiver prototype that detects when satellites are targeted by radar. It will have more capability than previous receivers at only a fraction of the size, weight, and power consumption, making it easier and less expensive to integrate onto satellites.