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The U.S. Space Force announced on Tuesday that it was awarding a $2.29 billion contract to Elon Musk’s SpaceX as it pursues the development of a Space Data Network Backbone (SDN) program for the Joint Force.
“Once again, important to emphasize that there are two different systems: Starlink for civilian usage and Starshield that is built & operated for US govt,” Elon Musk noted on X, in response to a headline reporting the news.
“We try hard to keep these separate,” he added.
The SDN program is an “optically interconnected satellite constellation designed to provide secure, high-speed global data transport for the Joint Force,” according to a press release from the Space Systems Command.
The award to SpaceX aims to expand this network of satellites to deliver global “tactical communications and broadband communication services,” with a prototype deliverable expected by the end of 2027.
“The SDN Backbone leverages the best of commercial innovation and delivers a strong foundation for the SDN mission set – a huge benefit and enabler for our warfighters,” said USSF Col. Ryan Frazier, acting Space Force portfolio acquisition executive for SBST, in an official statement.
He continued, “The SDN Backbone supports the broader SDN, which acts as a core communications layer for the USSF warfighting systems, ensuring our sensors and shooters are connected continuously, globally and securely.”
Despite rumors in the media that “tensions” have been spiking between the Pentagon and SpaceX amid the war with Iran, Department of War Spokesman Sean Parnell refuted such reports.
“The Fake News media has the story wrong, again,” he wrote. “@SpaceX remains a strong and valued partner to the Department of War. The claims in this article are simply not based in reality and do not reflect the close, effective collaboration between our teams.”