Northrop Grumman to Expand US Missile-Tracking Satellite Network

[Starmix]

According to the report, Northrop Grumman has secured a contract from the US Space Development Agency to support the third deployment phase of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) missile-tracking satellite constellation in Low-Earth orbit. The PWSA program is designed to enhance global missile detection and tracking from space.

The report also stated that under the effort, known as Tracking Layer Tranche 3, the company will deliver a constellation of satellites capable of detecting and tracking advanced missile threats, including hypersonic weapons. The architecture relies on a mesh of interconnected satellites to ensure continuous coverage and rapid data sharing.

The report added that under the contract, Northrop Grumman will produce and deliver 18 satellites equipped with infrared sensors, using dedicated manufacturing space allocated for PWSA satellite production to support delivery at scale.

In addition to the report, Tracking Layer Tranche 3 will provide early warning from the initial phases of launch through potential interception, while supplying high-accuracy tracking data suitable for fire-control applications to support interceptor engagements. The tracking layer operates in close coordination with the transport layer, which provides low-latency communications to transmit tracking data to forces operating worldwide.

Source: The Defense Post.

 

[gwolf666]

The announcement about Northrop Grumman’s new contract with the US Space Development Agency highlights just how critical space-based defense systems have become in today’s security environment. The Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) is not just another satellite program; it represents a shift toward resilient, interconnected constellations designed to handle advanced threats like hypersonic missiles. Delivering 18 satellites equipped with infrared sensors under Tracking Layer Tranche 3 shows the scale and urgency of this effort.
What stands out is the emphasis on continuous coverage and rapid data sharing through a mesh network. This design ensures that no single satellite is a point of failure, and that tracking information can be relayed globally with minimal delay. By coordinating closely with the transport layer, the system promises low-latency communication that can directly support interceptor engagements. In essence, this contract underscores how space technology is becoming the backbone of modern missile defense strategies.

 

[Starmix]

Northrop Grumman has secured a contract from the US Space Development Agency to support the third deployment phase of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) missile-tracking satellite constellation in Low-Earth orbit. This is a commenadale expansion of PWSA.