The National Reconnaissance Office launched the first satellites in its proliferated constellation on May 22. The mission, called NROL-146, was carried out by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The agency has been developing this constellation over the past few years and plans to conduct five more launches this year.
The NRO’s deputy director, Troy Meink, stated that more missions are expected through 2028 and beyond to increase the number of satellites across multiple orbits. The agency aims to enhance timeliness, diversify communications pathways, and improve resilience with these proliferated systems.
While the companies involved in building the new satellite constellation have not been identified, Northrop Grumman and SpaceX are reportedly part of the effort. The NRO’s pursuit of a large number of small spacecraft echoes the Space Development Agency’s goal of fielding hundreds of missile tracking and communication satellites.
Courtney Albon is C4ISRNET’s space and emerging technology reporter, covering the U.S. military with a focus on the Air Force and Space Force. She reports on significant acquisition, budget, and policy challenges within the Defense Department.
