Defense News ,U.S :- L3Harris has secured a lucrative contract to conceptualize and build 18 cutting-edge infrared space satellites for the US Space Development Agency’s (SDA) missile defense initiative. Valued at a staggering $919 million, these state-of-the-art systems are part of the SDA’s Tanche 2 Tracking Layer program, which aims to establish a "near-global missile warning and tracking" capability, bolstering the nation's defense against various threats, including the ever-evolving landscape of hypersonic missiles.
This significant project aligns with the broader objectives of the US Space Force’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, an ambitious undertaking geared towards creating a comprehensive network of military satellites and other space-based solutions. These assets are strategically designed to provide crucial support to joint warfighters during terrestrial operations.
According to L3Harris, the resultant satellite constellation will possess the capability to monitor an array of hypersonic weapons characterized by unpredictable flight patterns, heightened speed, and low heat signatures. The adaptive nature of these satellites positions them as a pivotal component in addressing emerging challenges in missile defense.
L3Harris CEO and Chair, Christopher Kubasik, highlighted the company's commitment to innovation and growth in the space sector. He emphasized that space continues to be a thriving domain, and L3Harris, with its substantial investments in technology for space vehicles, payloads, and ground software, is well-positioned to offer groundbreaking solutions. Kubasik stated, “The SDA’s latest decision is another example of L3Harris listening to customers, understanding evolving threats, and delivering significant value while actively contributing to our nation’s security.”
The recent announcement by L3Harris follows SDA's update on the preferred partners for the Tracking Layer program's latest phase. In addition to the 18 satellites from L3Harris, Lockheed Martin and Sierra Space are set to contribute 18 infrared satellites each, forming a robust 54-satellite network for the SDA’s constellation. All these satellites are slated to be launched by April 2027, a testament to the urgency and strategic importance of the program.
This development is a progression in the layered missile defense efforts, showcasing L3Harris's continued involvement in such critical initiatives. The company had previously secured a $29-million contract in the preceding year to design a sensor payload for the US Space Force’s medium-orbit missile warning and tracking system. In 2022, L3Harris, along with Northrop Grumman, was selected by SDA to develop satellite models for the Tranche 1 Tracking Layer program. Notably, L3Harris commenced work on the missile-tracking satellites in December 2021, marking a concerted effort to contribute to the nation's security infrastructure.
The inception of the Tranche 0 program by SDA in 2020 laid the foundation for subsequent stages, with the initial contract awarded to L3Harris and SpaceX, a prominent California-based aerospace company. The collective progress across these initiatives underscores the collaborative efforts to enhance the country's missile defense capabilities and fortify its position in space exploration and security.
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