Space Force Awards $2.29B OTA to SpaceX for SDN Backbone

The U.S. Space Force has awarded a $2.29 billion Firm-Fixed-Price Other Transaction Authority agreement delivery order to SpaceX to accelerate the Space Data Network Backbone program.

The contract advances development of a resilient, optically interconnected satellite constellation in low Earth orbit that will serve as a high-speed, low-latency data transport layer for the Joint Force. The SDN Backbone forms part of the broader Space Data Network architecture and will operate alongside the Space Development Agency’s Transport Layer to create a hybrid mesh network.

Under the agreement, SpaceX must deliver a fully operational prototype capability by the end of 2027. The constellation will provide worldwide tactical communications and broadband services through an expanded mesh of satellites.

USSF Col. Ryan Frazier, acting Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Space-Based Sensing and Targeting, stated that the SDN Backbone leverages commercial innovation to deliver a strong foundation for the SDN mission set. Lt. Col. Fry, SDN Backbone system program manager, noted that the acquisition strategy uses rapid prototyping and OTAs to maintain both speed and scale while expanding the industrial base through a newly established SDN consortium.

The effort integrates with ongoing SDA Transport Layer work to evolve LEO capabilities and support unified, open-architecture data transport for Department of Defense missions. Space Systems Command manages the $15.6 billion annual space acquisition budget and oversees the program.