space data network Archives

SpaceX’s Starshield capability (Credit: SpaceX)

Space Force awards $2.29B deal to SpaceX to accelerate ‘backbone’ SATCOM network

Formerly known as MILNET, the Space Data Network Backbone constellation will provide backhaul communications to facilitate data transfer for the Pentagon.

May 27, 2026 By Mikayla Easley

A Space X Falcon 9 rocket launches from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, Feb. 14, 2024. The rocket was launched as part of classified mission USSF-124, sending six satellites to orbit – two for the Missile Defense Agency and four for the Space Development Agency. (U.S. Space Force photo by Airman 1st Class Spencer Contreras)

Sandhoo named Space Development Agency director, PAE for missile warning and tracking

Gurpartap "GP" Sandhoo's new dual-hatted roles come as the Space Force shakes up its acquisition structure in line with broader Pentagon efforts.

May 19, 2026 By Mikayla Easley

Space Force plans to invest billions in sprawling Space Data Network in FY27

The Space Data Network has multiple components and will support a number of Pentagon-wide efforts, including the Golden Dome for America missile defense architecture.

Apr 28, 2026 By Mikayla Easley

Space Force General Michael Guetlein, speaks alongside Rep. Jim Banks (R-IN) and U.S. President Donald Trump in the Oval Office at the White House on May 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. President Trump announced his plans for the “Golden Dome,” a national ballistic and cruise missile defense system. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Golden Dome budget plan gets $10B plus-up to accelerate space capabilities

“We were asked to procure some additional space capabilities. So we are at $185 billion for the objective architecture, which delivers way out into the 2035 timeframe,”…

Mar 17, 2026 By Mikayla Easley