- In October 2024, Northrop Grumman (U.S.) secured a contract from the U.S. Space Development Agency (SDA) to design and manufacture 38 data transport satellites for the Tranche 2 Transport Layer - Alpha (T2TL-Alpha) of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). These satellites, operating in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), will enhance military communication capabilities, with operations planned to begin by December 2026. This deal, valued at USD 732 million, strengthens Northrop Grumman’s presence in the defense space sector
- In October 2024, the European Space Agency (ESA) placed an order with Thales Alenia Space (France) for six additional satellites to expand Italy’s IRIDE Earth observation constellation. The initiative is aimed at enhancing Europe’s observation and environmental monitoring capabilities through advanced LEO satellite deployment, reinforcing Thales’ role in European space programs
- In January 2024, L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (U.S.) was awarded a USD 919 million contract to deliver 18 infrared space vehicles under the U.S. SDA’s Tranche 2 Tracking Layer. These systems will boost the U.S. military's missile detection and hypersonic threat tracking capabilities, cementing L3Harris’ reputation as a key defense technology provider
- In October 2023, the U.S. Space Development Agency (SDA) granted Northrop Grumman (U.S.) a contract worth USD 732 million to build 38 LEO data transport satellites for the T2TL-Alpha network under the PWSA program. These satellites are expected to enhance secure military communications, with operations set to begin by December 2026, reinforcing Northrop Grumman’s strategic defense role
- In October 2023, the U.S. Space Force awarded SpaceX (U.S.) a USD 70 million contract through the Space Systems Command, providing Starlink internet services for military operations. The one-year contract, which commenced on September 1, includes undisclosed specifications from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), reflecting SpaceX’s growing role in secure defense communications
