Proliferated low-Earth orbit (pLEO) architectures - constellations of hundreds of smaller, lower-cost satellites orbiting earth close to the atmosphere - add a resiliency layer to our current array of on-orbit systems and can better target hypersonic missiles maneuvering in flight. In support of Space Development Agency (SDA), Northrop Grumman is a leader in the effort to rapidly field a global pLEO architecture of data transport and missile warning/missile tracking satellites and the powerful ground systems that stitch it all together.

To help SDA make this complex architecture a reality, Northrop Grumman is combining its advanced technology and decades of mission expertise with the best commercially developed technology from partners ready today to produce with speed and at scale. 

Transport Layer

Northrop Grumman is under contract to deliver 116 satellites as part of SDA’s transport layer. The Transport Layer is designed to provide low-latency, high-volume data connectivity supporting U.S. military missions around the world and extends the military’s Link 16 tactical data link into space.

Tracking Layer

Northrop Grumman is under contract to deliver 16 space vehicles as part of global constellation of infrared missile warning and missile tracking satellites. These satellites integrate with the Transport Layer’s low-latency meshed communication network, enabling conventional and advanced missile tracking from proliferated low-Earth orbit.