The deepening relationship between SpaceX and the United States intelligence agencies is once again underscored by a new development.
SpaceX is constructing a network consisting of several hundred spy satellites under a classified contract with a U.S. intelligence agency, according to five sources familiar with the program who spoke to Reuters.
SpaceX's Starshield division is tasked with creating the network as per a $1.8 billion contract signed in 2021 with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), an intelligence agency responsible for satellite reconnaissance, the news agency reports based on its own findings.
Experts suggest that the agreement with
Elon Musk's company demonstrates the Pentagon's growing investment in military technology that would use satellite systems orbiting at low Earth altitudes to support the U.S. ground forces.
If successful, the program could represent a significant advancement for the U.S. military in swiftly identifying targets anywhere around the globe.
The Wall Street Journal had earlier reported in February of this year that the U.S. government had earmarked $1.8 billion for a secretive Starshield contract. However, it was not yet known at that time who the contract was with and for what purpose.
There is currently no information available to Reuters about when the spy satellite program will be operational, nor is there knowledge regarding which subcontractors SpaceX may collaborate with on the project.