The US Space Force has signed a $1.2 billion contract with BAE Systems for missile tracking satellites

The U.S. Space Force has signed a $1.2 billion contract with BAE Systems Space and Mission Systems to supply 10 missile tracking satellites. The contract was concluded on May 29 under a fixed price and other Transaction authority (OTA) agreement, according to a press release from the Space Systems Command on June 2.

This initiative is part of the Resilient Missile Warning Tracking Epoch 2 (RMWT Epoch 2) program, which represents the second phase of the US Space Force's efforts to create and develop a network of satellites tracking missile threats in medium Earth orbit (MEO).

The satellites supplied under this contract will provide more stable and reliable detection and tracking of ballistic and other missile threats, which will enhance the early warning and defense capabilities of the United States and its allies.

The placement of satellites in medium Earth orbit makes it possible to expand coverage and reduce the vulnerability of the tracking system compared to traditional geostationary platforms.

The RMWT Epoch 2 program is a key element of the modernization of the US space infrastructure and reflects the growing importance of outer space in ensuring national security.