Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS)
ActiveSpace · Space Force · Lockheed Martin
Missile warning satellite constellation. Massively over budget.
Total Cost
$19.2B
Cost Overrun
+300%
Development
17 years
Planned Units
6
Delivered
6
Start Year
1996
IOC Year
2013
Delivery Progress100% (6 / 6)
Key Details
Original estimate $4.2B, final cost $19.2B. 17 years late. Being replaced by Next-Gen OPIR.
💸 Taxpayer Alert: 300% Over Budget
The Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) program has exceeded its original budget by 300%. At $19.2B, this represents billions in cost growth that could have funded schools, healthcare, or infrastructure. This is a pattern across Pentagon weapons programs — the military-industrial complex has little incentive to control costs.
Why Does This Keep Happening? →What Else Could $19.2B Buy?
🏫 1,280 new public schools
🏥 38 community hospitals
🎓 548,571 four-year college scholarships
🌉 64 bridge replacements