What Happened
US Space Force Awards Contracts for Maneuverable Reconnaissance Satellites
The US Space Force has awarded contracts to Northrop Grumman and True Anomaly to develop prototype satellites for the GHOST-R program, a maneuverable reconnaissance satellite initiative. The program aims to demonstrate small, low-cost satellites that can image other satellites in geosynchronous orbit. The prototypes are expected to launch in 2028, with operational RG-XX platforms anticipated by 2029. The GHOST-R program feeds into the larger $6.2 billion Andromeda consortium, which covers work on both the RG-XX reconnaissance satellites and the SG-XX surveillance fleet. This development was first reported by Air & Space Forces Magazine and the Defense Innovation Unit.