SpaceX 'developing' hundreds of spy satellites for US government

The US has been increasingly getting dependant on SpaceX and Elon Musk for their space infrastructure. Image Credit: Reuters

In a significant development for the US’ national security efforts, SpaceX has reportedly been awarded a contract by the Presiden Joe Biden-led US Department of Defense’s National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) to develop and manufacture a vast constellation of low-orbiting surveillance satellites as per a Reuters report.

This network, dubbed Starshield, is expected to revolutionize the intelligence-gathering capabilities of the US, by operating as a coordinated swarm to monitor ground targets with unprecedented precision.

According to the Reuters report, SpaceX’s involvement in this ambitious project builds upon earlier disclosures by The Wall Street Journal, which uncovered a $1.8 billion contract signed in 2021 between SpaceX and an undisclosed government agency.

Starshield aims to establish a comprehensive surveillance apparatus utilizing a multitude of small imaging satellites working in tandem with relay satellites for seamless data transmission.

The envisioned result is a continuous stream of high-resolution imagery covering every corner of the globe, enhancing the United States’ intelligence-gathering capabilities to unprecedented levels.

A source speaking to Reuters underscored the potential of this network to render concealment virtually impossible.

Although neither SpaceX nor the NRO have officially confirmed the company’s engagement in the endeavour, an NRO spokesperson conveyed to Reuters the agency’s commitment to developing an unparalleled space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance system.

This latest contract adds to SpaceX’s growing portfolio in the realm of national security space initiatives. Recent reports indicated that SpaceX secured a $70 million deal with the Space Force to furnish satellite communications under the Starshield program.

It’s worth noting that SpaceX founder Elon Musk has delineated Starshield as a distinct venture from the civilian-focused Starlink constellation, emphasizing its exclusive dedication to governmental and national security objectives.

(With inputs from agencies)