Islamic State Positions Tracked by U.S. Satellites as a Bonus
- Added use found for satellites made to detect nuclear launches
- Lockheed-Northrop system is working after delays, overruns
How Islamic State Makes Money Explained in Three Minutes
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U.S. early warning satellites and sensors designed primarily to detect the launch of missiles carrying nuclear warheads are providing daily streams of intelligence on Islamic State positions in Iraq and Syria, according to defense officials.
The system, using a satellite built by Lockheed Martin Corp. and equipped with sensors from Northrop Grumman Corp., detects heat, or infrared signatures. Combined with electronic and signals intelligence and video gathered by reconnaissance drones and aircraft, the satellites are helping to compile a running portrait of Islamic State ground positions.