Northrop Grumman Corporation has been awarded a contract worth approximately $732 million by the Space Development Agency (SDA). The contract involves the development and construction of 38 data transfer satellites as part of the Tranche 2 Transport Layer – Alpha (T2TL-Alpha) of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). These satellites will provide support for the SDA’s latest version of the PWSA, enabling efficient and secure data transmission in low Earth orbit.
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Northrop Grumman receives contract for 38 Alpha satellites
This announcement of the Alpha follows an award in August 2023 to Northrop Grumman for 36 satellites as part of the T2TL-Beta. The Alpha and Beta satellites are designed to work together in orbit, enhancing their capabilities and providing a more comprehensive space network. This collaboration ensures seamless communication and coordination between the two satellite systems, enabling efficient data transmission and mission support. The integration of Alpha and Beta satellites maximizes the effectiveness of the overall Tranche 2 Transport Layer architecture.
The contract not only includes the development of 38 satellites for the PWSA project, but also encompasses the support of ground elements and five years of operation and maintenance. The satellites are scheduled to launch in December 2026. Additionally, Northrop Grumman has been awarded a contract for the Tranche 1 Transport Layer 1 (T1TL), which, similar to the T2TL-Alpha project, enables low-latency, high-bandwidth data transmission to support US military operations worldwide.
Northrop Grumman combines its satellite technology and experience in missions with strategic commercial partnerships to meet the demands of the PWSA contracts. This approach ensures that the company can leverage its expertise and resources effectively, bringing together the best of both worlds. By collaborating with commercial partners, Northrop Grumman can tap into their industry knowledge and capabilities, enhancing the overall development and implementation of the PWSA project. This approach demonstrates Northrop Grumman’s commitment to delivering innovative and efficient solutions that meet the unique requirements of the space environment.
Northrop Grumman, along with its industry partners, is fully committed to the goal of the Space Development Agency to develop the next generation of architectures in low Earth orbit, connecting and protecting our soldiers worldwide. Leveraging their extensive experience in military satellite communication, the Northrop Grumman team is dedicated to fulfilling their obligations and bringing innovative solutions to this mission.
Northrop Grumman provides spacecraft and ground systems for PWSA project
The Proliferated Warfighter Space Network (PWSA) project, led by Northrop Grumman, involves the delivery of spacecraft and ground systems for a new constellation in low Earth orbit. The project is divided into two main areas: the Transport Layer and the Tracking Layer. The Transport Layer aims to provide low-latency, high-bandwidth data connectivity to support military operations worldwide, while the Tracking Layer focuses on detecting, tracking, and potentially neutralizing hypersonic and ballistic missiles. This integrated network will enable seamless communication between satellites from different manufacturers.
- The Transport Layer is specifically designed to provide a low-latency, high-bandwidth data connection to support global US military operations
- The Tracking Layer is designed to detect, track, and ultimately engage hypersonic and ballistic missiles
The Transport Layer and Tracking Layer of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Network (PWSA) are designed to be interoperable in space, using a shared data standard that enables seamless communication between satellites from different manufacturers. These satellites will connect elements of an integrated sensing architecture, creating a network that provides consistent and secure connectivity. This network is a critical component of the Joint All Domain Command Control, ensuring continuous and reliable communication for military operations worldwide.
Northrop Grumman: Leading the Way in Aerospace Technology
Northrop Grumman is a renowned global aerospace company that specializes in providing innovative solutions for the aviation and space industry. Our cutting-edge technologies enable our customers to connect and protect the world, as well as explore the vastness of the universe. With a shared commitment to solving our customers’ most challenging problems, our dedicated team of experts continuously redefine the boundaries of what is achievable.
Northrop Grumman to Develop 38 Satellites for PWSA Project
The contract for the development of 38 satellites for the PWSA project by the Space Development Agency offers numerous advantages. By providing low-latency, high-bandwidth data transmission, these satellites support US military operations worldwide. They enable seamless communication between satellites from different manufacturers, forming a network that ensures consistent and secure connectivity.
The development of a next-generation low Earth orbit architecture by Northrop Grumman, in collaboration with industry partners, is a crucial element for the success of the Joint All Domain Command Control. By leveraging their extensive experience in military satellite communication, the Northrop Grumman team is dedicated to realizing the vision of the Space Development Agency and ensuring seamless connectivity and protection for our soldiers. Their commitment, expertise, and engagement make them a trusted partner in fulfilling this mission.
