SpaceX is reportedly building a network of hundreds of spy satellites for the U.S. intelligence agency, per sources familiar with the program.
The sources also revealed that the SpaceX Starshield business unit has been employed under a $1.8 billion contract since 2021 for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO).
SpaceX Strengthens Ties With National Security
Reuter's exclusive report detailed the deepening ties between Elon Musk's space company and national security agencies. In addition, the plans also showed the company's involvement in other military projects.
The program also illustrated a Pentagon investment involving the low-Earth orbiting satellite systems that could be used to support ground forces. If the plan becomes successful, the program would significantly boost the ability of the U.S. government and military to quickly spot potential targets globally.
In a statement, the NRO acknowledged its work on developing a satellite system and working with other government agencies and companies. However, the agency declined to comment on SpaceX's involvement.
"The National Reconnaissance Office is developing the most capable, diverse, and resilient space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance system the world has ever seen," a spokesperson said.
U.S. Plans for Stronger Intelligence Programs
The sources said that SpaceX's program is focused on developing satellites that can track targets on the ground. The information will be shared with U.S. intelligence and military officials.
Since 2020, there have been approximately a dozen prototypes, including Space X's Falcon 9 rockets. Although neither the government nor the company has admitted to deploying satellites, sources said that some are prototypes for the Starshield network.
The alleged Starshield network is a separate project from the existing Starlink commercial broadband of SpaceX, which provided internet to various consumers.
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