The Space Force aims to launch a new satellite constellation for tracking ground targets from orbit by 2028, as communicated by Lt. Gen. Gregory Gagnon at an Air & Space Forces Association conference. This program, known as the Resilient Radar System-Ground (RRS-G), will be developed by Northrop Grumman, with operational satellites expected to be deployed within the next two years.
Historically, tracking ground targets relied on manned and unmanned aircraft, but the Pentagon now seeks to transition this focus to space. Gagnon also announced the activation of the 77th Surveillance Squadron, the first dedicated to space-based sensing and tracking to support RRS-G missions.
In collaboration with the National Reconnaissance Office, the Space Force is simultaneously working on the Airborne Moving Target Indicator (AMTI) mission, with an initial constellation planned for deployment by 2028.
The fiscal 2027 budget request includes substantial funding for both GMTI and AMTI missions, indicating a significant investment in advancing space-based surveillance capabilities.
Additionally, the Space Force’s Commercial Space Office plans to engage commercial vendors for space domain awareness (SDA) services through the Commercial Augmentation Space Reserve (CASR), with contracts anticipated to be awarded soon.
The report highlights the increasing integration of commercial capabilities into military operations, focusing on operational readiness and enhanced tracking systems in space.
