Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI)

The Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI) program, as outlined in Program Element PE 1203155SF, is a major initiative under the Department of the Air Force and the United States Space Force (USSF). The primary goal of this program is to design, develop, and field a next-generation space-based radar satellite system capable of resilient, day-night, all-weather detection, tracking, and imagery of ground and maritime targets. This capability is intended to support dynamic targeting and long-range strike operations, particularly in highly contested and non-permissive environments. The GMTI program is a collaborative effort involving the Space Force, other military services, Combatant Commands, and the Intelligence Community. The objective is to enhance target detection, custody, and sensor-to-shooter timelines.

The Ground Moving Target Indicator line item funds the core activities of the GMTI program. Funding levels increase in future fiscal years, reflecting a ramp-up in production and development consistent with the program baseline. Program activities include the design, development, production, integration, testing, on-orbit initialization, and mission execution for GMTI space vehicles and their associated ground systems. These efforts are essential for delivering a robust operational capability that can be fielded and sustained in support of joint and coalition operations.

Within the GMTI program, product development is a significant focus, with contracts awarded to various performing activities. Funding supports the engineering, manufacturing, and development phase of the program, following Milestone B approval by the USSF Service Acquisition Executive. The acquisition strategy is structured to enable rapid deployment and operational support, ensuring the GMTI system can be presented to Combatant Commands under Title 10 authority for kill chain closure and battle management functions.

The enterprise support component of the GMTI program provides funding for program-wide support activities, including systems engineering, integration, and program management. These funds ensure that the GMTI program maintains the necessary infrastructure and expertise to manage the complex development and fielding process. This includes coordination with multiple stakeholders and integration with existing defense systems.

Management services funding supports specialized technical and analytical services required for the GMTI program. This includes Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) and support from Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) such as Aerospace Corporation. These services are critical for risk management, technical oversight, and independent assessment of program progress and performance.

The GMTI program's objectives are justified by the need to maintain strategic and operational advantages in surveillance and targeting, especially in environments where traditional airborne or terrestrial sensors may be degraded or denied. The space-based GMTI system is designed to provide persistent coverage and rapid response capabilities, supporting both tactical and strategic decision-making. The transfer of budget authority from the Air Force to the Space Force reflects the evolving nature of the program and its alignment with broader Department of Defense priorities in space-based sensing and operational systems development.