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The Space Development Agency (SDA) has awarded prototype agreements worth .5 billion to Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman for the development of data transport satellites as part of its Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. Each company will design and build 36 spacecraft to provide encrypted connectivity and communication for global warfighters. Lockheed’s contract is valued at up to 3 million, while Northrop’s is worth 6 million.

The satellites are part of the third generation, known as Tranche 2, of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. This architecture consists of a fleet of small satellites operating in low Earth orbit, approximately 1,200 miles above the Earth’s surface. In addition to data transport satellites, the constellation will also include satellites capable of detecting and warning of missile threats.

The SDA was established in 2019 with a strategy built on spiral development and proliferation. The goal is to accelerate the acquisition process by moving from concept to technology deployment in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional military satellite development. The agency aims to launch the 72 transport satellites developed by Lockheed and Northrop in 2026. These satellites will incorporate advanced tactical communication technology.

Both Lockheed and Northrop have experience in building previous iterations of SDA’s transport satellites. Lockheed has provided 10 satellites for Tranche 0, set to launch later this year, and is currently working on 42 satellites for Tranche 1. Northrop is also developing 42 Tranche 1 transport satellites, with the first launch expected in late 2024.

Lockheed Martin recently announced the opening of a small satellite processing facility to build and test SDA satellites, as well as other spacecraft and technology demonstrators. The company’s strategic partnerships with suppliers and small businesses will support the accelerated delivery of SDA’s critical technology.

The SDA’s constellation of low-cost communication and missile tracking satellites, along with the new data transport satellites, will significantly enhance the global communication and situational awareness capabilities for warfighters.

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