Lockheed Martin has completed a critical end-to-end test between the space and ground elements of the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS), the company announced Aug. 1.

The test was considered a key milestone in preparation for launch and on-orbit operations of the program’s first geosynchronous orbit (GEO) spacecraft.

SBIRS will provide early warning of missile launches and support other missions simultaneously, including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace characterization.