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The Space Development Agency (SDA) has awarded prototype agreements totaling .5 billion to Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman to build data transport satellites for its Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. Under the contracts, each company will develop 36 spacecraft that will provide encrypted connectivity and communication for warfighters around the world.

These satellites are part of the third generation of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, known as Tranche 2, which consists of hundreds of small satellites operating in low Earth orbit. Along with the data transport satellites, the constellation will include spacecraft capable of detecting and warning of missile threats.

The SDA, established in 2019, follows a strategy defined by spiral development and proliferation. The Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture aims to augment constellations of large spacecraft with smaller, more affordable satellites. The agency’s goal is to reduce the time it takes to conceive and launch a satellite from five to 10 years to just about two years, enabling regular and rapid technology advancements.

Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman have previous experience in building transport satellites. Lockheed has provided 10 spacecraft for Tranche 0, set to launch later this year, and is currently working on 42 for Tranche 1. Northrop is also developing 42 Tranche 1 transport satellites, with the first launches slated for late 2024.

The transport satellites developed by Lockheed and Northrop are expected to be launched in 2026. These satellites will feature advanced tactical communication technology and will contribute to the SDA’s vision of creating a low-Earth orbit communications architecture that meets the needs of warfighters.

Lockheed Martin recently opened a small satellite processing facility to accelerate the development and testing of SDA satellites and other spacecraft. The company’s strategic partnerships with suppliers and small businesses will support the SDA’s strategy for accelerated delivery.

Overall, the awards to Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman represent a significant step in the development of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, bringing the SDA closer to its goal of enhancing communication and missile tracking capabilities for warfighters operating globally.

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