Analysis of Global Coverage of Mid-Low Orbit Early Warning Constellation for Hypersonic Weapons

Hypersonic weapons have characteristics such as low flight altitude and strong maneuverability, making it difficult for traditional ground-based radars and high-orbit infrared satellites to track them over long arcs. As noted in prior research, the detection and tracking of such high-speed, low-altitude targets represent a significant gap in existing defense architectures.​ This paper analyzes the tracking and coverage capabilities of hypersonic weapons during their mid-flight phase based on a medium and low orbit early warning satellite constellation. Simulation results demonstrate that with a satellite deployment altitude of 1000–1300 km and a number of 64 to 100 satellites, at least double coverage can be achieved over most areas of the Earth except the polar regions, providing an effective solution for the full-track of hypersonic weapons and significantly improving the capability for continuous surveillance and fire control support. The findings offer quantitative design references for future constellation deployment.