Editor’s Note: This story was updated May 28 with comments from Space Systems Command.
Space Systems Command has awarded a massive $2.29 billion contract to SpaceX for the “backbone” of its new Space Data Network, a constellation of satellites in low-Earth orbit that will provide connectivity for the entire joint force.
SDN is the Space Force’s new program to transport data from sensors to shooters around the globe, combining both military and commercial satellites to manage both tactical and enterprise communication needs. The “SDN Backbone” was previously a joint Space Force-National Reconnaissance Office effort called MILNET.
MILNET emerged in Space Force budget documents last year, and the service never released many details. Media reports at the time, however, indicated that SpaceX was the sole contractor with its militarized “Starshield” satellites based on its ubiquitous Starlink spacecraft.
In a May 26 release, Space Systems Command described the new Backbone as an “integrated network, providing robust, resilient, high-capacity, and low-latency data transport … delivering worldwide tactical communications and broadband communication services.”
A SSC spokesperson told Air & Space Forces Magazine that the Backbone will be government owned and operated but leverage “commercially derived technologies and platforms from industry partners.”
The release also states SpaceX must deliver a “fully operational prototype capability by the end of 2027.” SSC would not say if that will include new satellites being launched or using existing spacecraft on orbit, or how many satellites will be part of the Backbone.
Space Force budget documents do indicate the service plans to buy 13 satellites for SDN in 2026 and 21 in 2027.
SSC says the deal with SpaceX was a competitive award and the solicitation was offered to other companies in a “consortium” for the Space Data Network.
In a statement, SDN Backbone system program manager Lt. Col. Jeffrey Fry said competition remains a key part of the effort.
“Our acquisition strategy is designed to foster competition and broaden our industrial base,” said Fry. “We aren’t trading speed for scale; we are demanding both. By using rapid prototyping and Other Transaction Authorities, we are ensuring our advanced solutions are integrated and delivered to the warfighter as fast as possible.”
The SSC spokesperson confirmed that more competition is coming.
While SpaceX was awarded this specific delivery order, the [Pentagon] is competitively soliciting new and expanded capabilities from vendors across space and ground segments,” the spokesperson said. “Upcoming awards—including operational capabilities such as space exchange points and integrated mission operations—will ensure a competitive and integrated ecosystem.”