Exclusive
Business
ULA has an ambitious plan to ‘reuse’ Vulcan rocket: keep it in space
The heavy-lift rocket’s upper stage might extend its service as a tug or defender.
Policy
In a budgetary first, Air Force will launch two programs without asking Congress in advance
The service is using a power granted by lawmakers in the 2024 NDAA.
Defense Systems
Space Force outlines vision for hybrid military-commercial-allied mission architectures
New strategy offers guidance on what the USSF wants to buy, but not how much it plans to spend.
Threats
US-China mil-to-mil thaw reaches space
Beijing has reached out on space safety, says U.S. Space Command leader, who also issued warnings about new PLA capabilities.
Defense Systems
New spy-satellite constellation begins launch next month
Seven operational satellites are planned this year, and more through 2028, a senior NRO leader said.
Policy
Military could be directed to protect industry's satellites, Pentagon says
The Defense Department's first commercial space integration strategy says the military will take steps to “mitigate risks to commercial space actors.”
Business
Pentagon will use commercial space assets in military operations, under new plan
The unclassified document aims “to be transparent” about what the military needs and how private companies fit in.
Ideas
Defense One Radio, Ep. 147: The state of the Space Force
Here are the first conversations from our annual State of Defense interview series.
Science & Tech
Spy agency ready to launch new vehicle-tracking satellites
After tests go well, NRO director looks to start replacing JSTARS aircraft with orbital sensors.
Threats
China’s moon plans worry Space Force
New orbits could open “potential attack vectors” on US satellites, general says.
Science & Tech
Pentagon eyes Starship, designed for Mars, for military missions somewhat closer to home
After a successful, if abbreviated, third test flight, SpaceX’s reusable mega-rocket might be ready before the U.S. military is.
Threats
Space Force seeks orbital-refueling tech in new budget
But spending caps will slow counterspace efforts, space chief says in interview.
Threats
Chinese space, nuclear development is ‘breathtakingly fast,’ DOD officials warn
Heads of STRATCOM, Space Command discuss growing nuclear, space dangers.
Threats
Russian space nuke wouldn’t alter US orbital-network plans, Space Force says
The nascent Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture is built on the idea that lots of satellites offer plenty of redundancy.
Almost There!
Help us tailor content specifically for you: