Washngton: SpaceX successfully launched its first set of operational spy satellites as part of a new US intelligence network aimed at enhancing space-based surveillance capabilities.
The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off at 4 a.m. EDT Wednesday from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Southern California.
Earlier this year, reports revealed that SpaceX, in collaboration with Northrop Grumman, is building hundreds of satellites for the US National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) to create a comprehensive orbital system that can track ground targets almost anywhere on Earth. Able to recognize immediately.
The NRO said this launch was the first launch of the NRO’s propagated systems that include responsive collection and rapid data distribution. Additionally, NRO plans approximately six launches in 2024 to support its proliferation architecture, with additional launches expected to continue through 2028. However, the agency did not disclose the specific number of satellites deployed during this mission.
The development of this satellite network highlights the US government’s increasing dependence on Elon Musk’s SpaceX for some of its missions.
SpaceX has not only dominated the US rocket launch market, but has also become the largest satellite operator globally with its Starlink network.
