Space Force awards SpaceX $2.29 billion for military satellite network
The U.S. Space Force has awarded SpaceX a $2.29 billion contract to build the Space Data Network Backbone, a low Earth orbit satellite constellation. This network is considered foundational to the Pentagon's Golden Dome missile defense initiative. The deal underscores the military's increasing reliance on commercial space capabilities for national security.
Key facts
- SpaceX received a $2.29 billion contract from the U.S. Space Force.
- The contract is for the Space Data Network Backbone.
- The network will be a low Earth orbit constellation.
- It is foundational to the Pentagon's Golden Dome missile defense initiative.
- The deal highlights military reliance on commercial space technology.
Entities
Institutions
- Space Force
- SpaceX
- Pentagon
Sources
- Quartz —