The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) plans to launch the first satellites in its proliferated space architecture next month in Colorado Springs, Colo. The launch is part of a series of six planned for this year to increase the spy agency’s satellite presence in orbit. The agency aims to enhance timeliness, communication paths, and resilience with this new system.
The proliferated architecture launches will continue until 2028, and the NRO has been utilizing commercial services like the Electro-Optical Commercial Layer program for satellite imagery. The NRO’s pursuit of a hybrid architecture involving small spacecraft in large numbers is similar to the Space Development Agency’s efforts. Advances in technology and a willingness to take risks have enabled these developments.
Troy Meink, the NRO’s principal deputy director, did not disclose specific details about the upcoming launch, indicating it involves non-traditional firms. The NRO has been testing and developing the satellite constellation concept over the past few years. Meink emphasized that the agency’s move towards these proliferated architectures was made possible by cost-effective launch options and technological advancements.
