They want to launch satellites for a data relay, called the Transport Layer, and a missile warning and tracking, called the Tracking Layer.
SDA is responsible for rapidly developing and fielding large constellations of satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) for multiple military missions, via an incremental approach that will see improved capabilities on orbit every couple of years. This network structure, newly re-dubbed the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, includes satellites, battle management software, new type of technologies and payloads (for missions such as augmenting GPS) and ground support.
The data relay, Transport layer, will be 300 to 500+ satellites in LEO ranging from 750 [kilometers] to 1200 [kilometers] in altitude.
The agency is looking for $9.7 billion for the Tracking Layer through FY28, which will cover later follow-on iterations of the missile warning/tracking satellites. The Tranche 1 Tracking Layer will comprise 35 satellites in three orbital regions.
A lot of the satellites will be built by Northrop Grumman, L3Harris and Raytheon.
Brian Wang is a Futurist Thought Leader and a popular Science blogger with 1 million readers per month. His blog Nextbigfuture.com is ranked #1 Science News Blog. It covers many disruptive technology and trends including Space, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Anti-aging Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology.
Known for identifying cutting edge technologies, he is currently a Co-Founder of a startup and fundraiser for high potential early-stage companies. He is the Head of Research for Allocations for deep technology investments and an Angel Investor at Space Angels.
A frequent speaker at corporations, he has been a TEDx speaker, a Singularity University speaker and guest at numerous interviews for radio and podcasts. He is open to public speaking and advising engagements.
