Space Development Agency Awards $2.5 Billion Contract to Build Hypersonic Missile-Tracking Satellites

Introduction

In a significant move to enhance the United States' defence capabilities, the Space Development Agency (SDA) recently announced its selection of three industry giants – L3Harris, Lockheed Martin, and Sierra Space – to construct and operate a constellation of 54 satellites equipped with advanced infrared sensors. Valued at approximately $2.5 billion, this initiative marks a crucial step in bolstering the nation's defence against hypersonic missiles throughout all phases of flight.

 

Rendering of L3Harris' Tracking Layer Tranche 2 missile-tracking satellites for the Space Development Agency. Credit: L3Harris

Tranche 2 Tracking Layer Overview

The 54 satellites, constituting the Tranche 2 Tracking Layer, will form a comprehensive network in low Earth orbit, situated at an altitude of 1,000 kilometers. This strategic placement will enable the satellites to effectively track hypersonic missiles in various stages of their trajectory. The ambitious project aligns with the broader Proliferated Space Architecture, a layered satellite network developed by the SDA to enhance national security.

Contract Distribution

Each of the three selected companies – L3Harris, Lockheed Martin, and Sierra Space – will be responsible for the production and operation of 18 satellites. The contract values are impressive, with L3Harris securing $919 million, Lockheed Martin at $890 million, and Sierra Space earning $740 million. These agreements also include incentives to ensure timely delivery, highlighting the urgency and importance of the project.

Space Development Agency's concept for a transport layer of satellites in low Earth orbit. Credit: Space Development Agency

Sierra Space's Debut

This collaboration marks Sierra Space's first contract with the SDA and its inaugural major deal to manufacture satellites for the U.S. military. Sierra Space, recognized for its Dream Chaser vehicle designed for cargo delivery to the International Space Station, will build the satellites at its facilities in Colorado.

Key Technological Partnerships

Lockheed Martin, a veteran in securing SDA contracts, will utilize Terran Orbital buses for its Tranche 2 satellites. The infrared missile-tracking payloads, crucial to the success of the project, will be provided by General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems. Additionally, Sierra Space has partnered with Geost, a reputable supplier of sensors for military satellites, to deliver 18 infrared payloads, including 16 Mercury missile warning and missile tracking payloads, and two Phoenix fire control payloads.

Launch Projections

The SDA anticipates launching the Tranche 2 Tracking Layer satellites in 2027. These satellites, designed to track hypersonic missiles globally, represent a pivotal component of the envisioned 100-satellite architecture comprising the Proliferated Space Architecture.

Challenges and Contingencies

While the SDA is actively pushing forward with its plans, the agency has highlighted a crucial dependency on the passage of the 2024 defence budget by Congress. Acknowledging potential disruptions, the SDA has emphasized that the kickoff and execution of these awards may face challenges if a full defence budget is not approved by the end of March.

Conclusion

The recent contracts awarded to L3Harris, Lockheed Martin, and Sierra Space signify a crucial milestone in the United States' efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities against hypersonic threats. As the Tranche 2 Tracking Layer takes shape, these advanced satellites equipped with cutting-edge technology are poised to play a pivotal role in safeguarding national security in an era of evolving threats.

The successful execution of these contracts is not only a testament to the capabilities of the selected companies but also a significant step towards achieving a resilient and sophisticated space-based defence architecture.

 

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