U.S. Space Force Awards Billions in Satellite Contracts to Counter Hypersonic Threats

The U.S. Space Force has awarded major contracts to four companies for a new satellite network. The system will track advanced threats, including hypersonic missiles. The deals, worth billions, mark a significant expansion of the country's space-based defence capabilities. Rocket Lab and Northrop Grumman secured contracts totalling about $1.6 billion. Rocket Lab's agreement, valued at $805 million, is the company's largest to date. The firm will build 18 satellites and supply components to other manufacturers, potentially earning up to $1 billion.

Northrop Grumman's $764 million contract brings their total to 150 satellites for the network. The company stated that the new satellites are designed to counter the growing threat of hypersonic missiles.

Lockheed Martin and L3Harris Technologies also received contracts for 36 satellites, worth nearly $2 billion. The Space Development Agency's acting director, Gurpartap 'GP' Sandhoo, confirmed that these awards will enable near-continuous global coverage for missile warning and tracking.

Rocket Lab founder Peter Beck called the deal a 'resounding affirmation' of the company's growth as a leading space contractor. The firm had previously won a $515 million contract to deliver 18 communications satellites for the same network. The new satellites will form a network capable of detecting and tracking fast-moving threats. With contracts now in place, the companies will begin production to meet the Space Force's requirements. The system aims to provide global coverage for missile defence in the coming years.