NRO Extends Contracts, Readies New Commercial Acquisition Approach

The National Reconnaissance Office has extended contracts with four commercial Earth observation providers while preparing to overhaul its acquisition strategy. HawkEye 360 received a 23-month extension for radio frequency capabilities, while Capella Space, ICEYE US, and Umbra secured 15.5-month extensions for radar data services. The NRO is transitioning to a new Commercial Solutions Opening model featuring a five-year revolving window and multi-phenomenology support including electro-optical, radar, RF, hyperspectral, and LIDAR capabilities. This shift reflects industry demands for longer-term, more predictable commercial partnerships.