A next-generation science and technology demonstration satellite is being built by the Sierra Nevada Corporation's Space Systems unit for the U.S. military.

The STPSat-5 is for the Department of Defense's Space Test Program, or STP, and will carry four scientific payloads to low-Earth orbit.

The satellite's mission, scheduled for 2016, will support development of future national security space systems.

"SNC is privileged to be part of the STP team that plays such a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of critical space environment and technology issues," said John Roth, vice president of business development for SNC's Space Systems. "The Space Test Program has a rich history of providing support to continue our nation's leadership in delivering enhanced space capability to protect our military men and women, which is in perfect alignment with our goals at Sierra Nevada Corporation."

The company said the Space Test Program will coordinate delivery of the payloads to SNC's Space Systems manufacturing facility in Colorado. SNC will integrate the payloads into the spacecraft and prepare it for launch.

The Space Test Program is managed by the U.S. Air Force's Space and Missile Systems Center.