US Força Espacial signed a $2.29 billion contract with SpaceX to build a secure, high-speed satellite communications network. The system, announced on Tuesday (26), will connect military sensors and weapons platforms in global operations. Ryan Frazier, interim acquisitions executive at Força Espacial, confirmed that the program, called Backbone from Rede from Dados Espaciais (SDN), keeps military sensors and systems connected seamlessly.
Low orbit Satélites integrated into single network
The project envisages low-orbit satellites connected to each other for fast and stable data exchange. The network will allow US armed forces to operate with secure and uninterrupted communications. The fully operational prototype will be delivered by the end of 2027, according to the schedule established in the contract.
The technology seeks to eliminate bottlenecks in military operations that require instantaneous transmission of information. Defense, reconnaissance, and command Sistemas require minimal latency to function effectively in critical scenarios.
Starlink and Starshield already operate in military communications
SpaceX already provides satellite capacity for the US Exército, Marinha and Força Aérea through its Starlink and Starshield programs. Segundo information, both networks already integrate the country’s military communications.
The choice of SpaceX for this contract reinforces the American government’s confidence in the Elon Musk company. Concorrentes like Amazon and other satellite manufacturers did not win this round’s bidding.
Federal Investimento in military satellites accelerated in 2024
American Congresso has authorized $13 billion in 2024 for Força Espacial investments in satellite communications. The measure works as an incentive for the private sector to expand capacity and innovation.
Esse amount reflects US strategic priority in maintaining space technological superiority. Análises indicate that military satellites have become critical assets in any modern conflict scenario.
anti-missile Defesa and “Golden Dome” are part of the strategy
Após takes office in January 2025, President Donald Trump signed a decree to advance the “Golden Dome” project (Domo from Ouro). The missile defense system integrates satellites, sensors and weapons into a single ecosystem.
Segundo the executive order, the US faces the threat of ballistic, hypersonic and cruise attacks. Trump set a goal of adopting “peace through strength” as a national defense objective.
Contexto from the dispute over military satellites
In July last year, Reuters had disclosed that the Trump government was looking for alternatives to SpaceX to develop components of the missile defense system. The change in stance indicates that negotiations have progressed.
Principais features of the SpaceX-Force Espacial contract:
- $2.29 billion Contrato for SDN network
- Low orbit Satélites connected in single mesh
- High-speed, encrypted Comunicação
- Entrega from prototype until December 2027
- Compatibilidade with existing military sensors and platforms
- Operação continues in denied and contested environments
The SDN network will represent a significant advance in command and control of American forces. Integração of commercial satellites in military infrastructure accelerates under global geopolitical pressure.