SpaceX has been awarded a U.S. contract worth over $2 billion to build a military satellite network
The U.S. Space Force has awarded SpaceX a $2.29 billion contract to build a secure, high-speed satellite communications network for the U.S. military.
This was reported by Reuters.
The new system is designed to enable instantaneous data transmission between military sensors, weapon systems, and platforms worldwide.
The project involves the creation of the Space Data Network Backbone (SDN Backbone)—a fault-tolerant space communications architecture with high data transfer speeds and low latency.
Under the terms of the contract, SpaceX must deliver a fully operational prototype of the system by the end of 2027.
The Pentagon notes that the new network will be a key element for real-time data transmission between missile threat detection systems and interceptors.
The system is also viewed as a critical component of the Trump administration’s “Golden Dome” missile defense initiative.
“SDN Backbone leverages the best of commercial innovation and provides a robust foundation for SDN missions—a massive advantage and enabler for our warfighters,” said U.S. Space Force Colonel Ryan Fraser.
The new network will be based on an expanded constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit (pLEO) and will operate in conjunction with the U.S. Space Development Agency’s transport layer.
The Pentagon emphasizes that the SDN Backbone will ensure the transmission of critical data for current and future U.S. military operations.
The U.S. Space Force also announced that it plans to select additional contractors this summer to manufacture satellites and other components for the new communications system.
As a reminder, SpaceX has increased the cost of Starlink access for kamikaze drones for the Pentagon fivefold—from $5,000 to $25,000 per terminal. This occurred after the U.S. began using strike drones in the war against Iran.
Recently, the American company SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket, which placed another batch of 24 Starlink internet satellites into Earth orbit.
SpaceX earned $8 billion last year.
