US Space Force confirms SpaceX will build sensor-to-shooter targeting network
The US Space Force has awarded SpaceX a $2.29 billion contract to build a sensor-to-shooter targeting network. This network will utilize technology from SpaceX's Starlink system and aims to enhance military communications in low-Earth orbit. The initiative comes after previous Pentagon efforts faced delays and challenges in satellite integration.
- ▪SpaceX has secured a contract to provide the US military with a space-based sensing and targeting network.
- ▪The Space Data Network Backbone contract is valued at $2.29 billion and aims to improve military communications.
- ▪The network will leverage technology from SpaceX's Starlink and is expected to enhance global tactical communications.
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| Original publisher | Ars Technica |
| Canonical URL | https://arstechnica.com/space/2026/05/us-space-force-confirms-spacex-will-build-sensor-to-shooter-targeting-network/ |
| Publication time | Wed, 27 May 2026 18:19:51 +0000 |
| Retrieval time | 2026-05-27T18:23:02.498Z |
| Last seen | 2026-05-27T18:23:02.498Z |
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| Cluster | 4pD9rojVcwD7 |
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Basis: Derived from the published RSS/Atom feed. Contact: [email protected]. Reviewed: 2026-07-24.
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Spinal tap US Space Force confirms SpaceX will build sensor-to-shooter targeting networkvar abtest_2156388 = new ABTest(2156388, 'click'); “We aren’t trading speed for scale; we are demanding both,” says the military’s program manager. Stephen Clark – May 27, 2026 2:19 pm | 0 A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket streaks into orbit with a batch of Starlink Internet satellites on January 4, 2026. Credit: US Space Force/Gwendolyn Kurzen A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket streaks into orbit with a batch of Starlink Internet satellites on January 4, 2026.
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