Technical Challenges Delay Mesh Network Development

The Space Development Agency is facing delays in demonstrating laser links between its first set of data relay and missile tracking satellites, a critical component of its Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture mesh network. The agency has encountered problems with optical intersatellite link development, production, and testing, and has paused launches of Tranche 1 satellites to correct issues. Despite the setback, SDA aims to start building up the optical mesh network within the next six months and have most of the Transport Layer launches completed by then. The development was reported by Breaking Defense.