SpaceX Secures US Space Data Network Backbone Contract

The Space Force awarded SpaceX a $2.29 billion fixed-price contract to build the Space Data Network Backbone in low-Earth orbit, leveraging Starlink/Starshield tech to create a global, secure sensor-to-shooter communications layer that links space-based sensing with targeting data; the initiative aims to accelerate a resilient, high-speed space communications backbone, with plans to expand participation, and a fully operational prototype due by the end of 2027.