The Future of U.S. Space Force Surveillance: Space-Based Ground and Air Moving Target Indicators in a Layered Defense Network

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The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is actively advancing its plans for a sophisticated and comprehensive surveillance network that will fundamentally reshape how the U.S. military monitors enemy movements. This network, which centers around space-based ground moving-target indicator (GMTI) and air moving-target indicator (AMTI) capabilities, represents the next major evolution in defense technology, with a goal to enhance surveillance in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial environments. These developments are aimed at countering the increasingly complex kill webs that adversaries are developing, which are designed to attack U.S. forces across multiple domains.

At the 2024 Defense News Conference in Arlington, Virginia, General Michael A. Guetlein, the Vice Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force, elaborated on these forthcoming initiatives. He shared updates on the timeline for deploying the first components of a satellite-based GMTI and AMTI capability, stating that the initial phases should begin rolling out in the early 2030s. This would mark a significant step forward in space-based surveillance, a mission that has been steadily gaining traction over the last several years.

However, General Guetlein emphasized that the surveillance network the U.S. military envisions will not be limited to space-based assets. Instead, it will include a “layered set of capabilities” designed to increase the system’s resilience. The network will be composed of multiple platforms, both airborne and spaceborne, and will integrate crewed aircraft, drones, and potentially other innovative platforms. The goal is to create a multi-layered defense system that is robust enough to survive and operate in contested environments, a need that has become increasingly urgent as adversaries develop sophisticated kill webs.

This layered surveillance concept has been discussed within military circles for years, but only recently has significant progress been made. Last month, the design baseline for the U.S. Space Force’s new satellite system was certified, allowing the program to move into the formal development phase. While the details of this system remain classified, the certification signifies a key milestone in the road to fielding these next-generation surveillance capabilities.

Historically, the U.S. military has relied heavily on aircraft for the GMTI and AMTI missions. Aircraft like the E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) and the now-retiring E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) have been central to these tasks. However, the growing need for persistence and survivability has driven the shift toward satellite-based systems. Space-based assets have long been seen as offering these advantages, and the move to field GMTI and AMTI satellites reflects this understanding.

Image: Boeing E-3 Sentry – sorce wikipedia

The U.S. National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) is also playing a crucial role in this surveillance transformation. It is reportedly acquiring a constellation of intelligence-gathering satellites from SpaceX, which are designed to track targets and support ground operations. This constellation will likely complement the U.S. Space Force’s plans for GMTI and AMTI, although the exact relationship between the NRO and USSF programs remains unclear.

In his remarks at the conference, General Guetlein highlighted the importance of maintaining a diverse array of platforms for these missions. He pointed out that, while satellites offer persistence and survivability, they are not without limitations. “The closer I can come to the target, the more resolution I get on the target,” Guetlein explained. “As I move to space, it becomes harder and harder to get that same level of resolution on a target that may be required.” This suggests that while satellites will play a key role in future GMTI and AMTI operations, aircraft and other platforms will still be needed to provide detailed, high-resolution tracking of targets.

A central theme of General Guetlein’s presentation was the increasing sophistication of adversary kill webs. These complex systems are designed to integrate multiple sensors, shooters, and communication networks into a single, highly responsive network capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously. According to Guetlein, the adversary’s kill webs “fully integrate multiple sensors, multiple bullets, against multiple simultaneous targets, all fully networked together with multiple sensors and all talking together through multiple communication paths.” This represents a significant leap in the enemy’s ability to hold U.S. forces at risk across long distances and in multiple domains.

To counter these advanced threats, the U.S. Space Force is investing in three main areas: enhanced situational awareness, increased satellite communications (SATCOM), and the protection of space capabilities. Enhanced awareness is vital to preventing operational surprises, while improved SATCOM is necessary to support U.S. kill webs and ensure the U.S. military’s own communication and coordination capabilities remain robust. Additionally, protecting space assets is critical to maintaining the U.S.’s ability to operate in contested environments, particularly in the event of conflict.

Starlink: Pioneering a New Frontier for Cellular and Data Communication while Ensuring Space Sustainaility and Global Connectivity

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies is another important factor in the development of GMTI and AMTI capabilities. These technologies are expected to play a critical role in processing the massive amounts of data collected by space-based sensors. In a previous interview with Defense News, General Guetlein highlighted the need for “processing on orbit on the sensor rather than processing on the ground,” a shift that will require advanced AI and ML solutions to manage the data in real time. This technological leap will also necessitate new communication pathways and architectures, further complicating the challenge of building a resilient, multi-domain surveillance network.

The U.S. military has already taken steps toward space-based GMTI capabilities. Back in 2021, then-U.S. Space Force Chief General Jay Raymond revealed that the service was working to build a space-based GMTI system as part of a classified program. This effort dates back to at least 2018, when the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office (RCO) initiated a project to explore space-based GMTI capabilities. GMTI radars are designed to discriminate between moving and stationary targets on the ground, allowing the military to track the movement of enemy forces over time. These radars can also provide synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery, which creates highly detailed ground maps, even in adverse weather conditions or obscured environments.

The plan to field space-based GMTI and AMTI capabilities has been a driving factor in the retirement of older surveillance platforms like the E-8C JSTARS and the U-2S Dragon Lady spy plane. These platforms, which have served the U.S. military for decades, are being phased out in favor of more advanced, survivable systems. One such replacement is the RQ-180, a high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft that is expected to take over the GMTI and SAR missions previously performed by the U-2S. The RQ-180’s ability to operate in contested airspace gives it a distinct advantage over earlier platforms, making it a critical asset in future conflicts.

General Guetlein did not explicitly mention the RQ-180 in his presentation, but his references to the need for a “layered set of capabilities” suggest that platforms like the RQ-180 will play an important role in the U.S. military’s future surveillance network. This layered approach, which integrates space-based and airborne assets, is designed to increase the system’s resilience and ensure that the U.S. can maintain situational awareness, even in the face of sophisticated enemy defenses.

Budget constraints remain a significant challenge for the U.S. Space Force as it seeks to develop these advanced capabilities. Despite steady increases in the USSF’s budget, General Guetlein acknowledged that the service is facing tough choices in terms of prioritizing its investments. “We know we can’t buy everything we need, so we are ruthlessly prioritizing all the kit that we’re buying to make sure that it’s the biggest bang for the buck,” he said. The USSF is focusing on readiness and ensuring that it has the capabilities needed to prevail in a crisis or conflict, even if that means sacrificing some capabilities in the short term.

As the U.S. Space Force continues to develop its GMTI and AMTI capabilities, it remains unclear exactly when these systems will come online. However, if the timelines discussed by General Guetlein hold true, the early 2030s will see the deployment of these next-generation surveillance assets. These capabilities will be crucial in any future conflict with a near-peer adversary, especially in the Pacific, where the U.S. is preparing for the possibility of a high-end fight with China.

The ability to track moving targets from space, combined with the resilience of a layered surveillance network, will give the U.S. military a significant advantage in future conflicts. As adversaries continue to develop and refine their kill webs, the U.S. Space Force’s investments in advanced surveillance technologies will be essential to maintaining the U.S.’s strategic edge. The future of warfare is increasingly moving into space, and the U.S. is positioning itself to lead the charge in this new era of military operations.

SPACE X – ELON MUSK

SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk in 2002, has emerged as a crucial player in the military and defense sectors of the United States, developing cutting-edge technologies that significantly enhance national security. The company’s collaboration with the U.S. military has been extensive, particularly in the fields of satellite technology, artificial intelligence, secure communications, and missile defense systems. This detailed report delves into SpaceX’s pivotal military projects, proprietary technologies, and contributions to the defense of the United States, offering comprehensive insights into the company’s role in transforming modern warfare.

Starshield: A Militarized Satellite Constellation

The Starshield project, SpaceX’s military-focused satellite initiative, was publicly unveiled in late 2022 and is designed to provide secure and specialized satellite services to U.S. government agencies. Built upon SpaceX’s successful Starlink infrastructure, Starshield is tailored specifically for national security needs, including Earth observation, secure communications, and hosting military payloads. Unlike Starlink, which serves commercial and civilian markets, Starshield features advanced encryption and security protocols, ensuring it meets the stringent requirements of U.S. military and intelligence operations​.

Starshield satellites are interoperable with other space assets, utilizing SpaceX’s laser communication system to enhance connectivity between various government satellites. This integration of communication systems enables rapid data transmission across the military’s satellite network, creating a resilient and flexible system crucial for both peacetime operations and active conflicts. SpaceX’s ability to rapidly deploy satellites through its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy launch systems ensures the U.S. military has quick access to critical infrastructure in space​.

One of the primary advantages of Starshield lies in its “proliferated Low Earth Orbit” (LEO) architecture. By deploying hundreds or even thousands of small satellites, Starshield offers enhanced resilience against enemy attacks, particularly in comparison to traditional satellite systems that rely on a small number of large, vulnerable satellites. In the event of a conflict, this distributed network could continue to provide crucial military capabilities, even if individual satellites were destroyed​.

National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) Spy Satellite Program

SpaceX has been instrumental in the National Reconnaissance Office’s (NRO) efforts to expand the U.S.’s space-based intelligence capabilities. The NRO contracted SpaceX to build and launch a constellation of low-orbit spy satellites, which are designed to operate as a swarm, tracking ground-based targets in real time. This project has significant implications for military surveillance and reconnaissance, enabling U.S. forces to monitor adversarial activities with unprecedented precision.

These spy satellites use advanced imaging technology to provide continuous global surveillance, allowing the U.S. military to gather intelligence on a scale never before possible. The network integrates large imaging satellites with relay satellites that can transmit data in real time to military command centers, enabling rapid decision-making during operations​.

This contract, which began with a $1.8 billion agreement in 2021, has since expanded as SpaceX continues to build and deploy more satellites to enhance U.S. intelligence capabilities. These efforts underscore SpaceX’s role as a key contractor for the NRO, which is responsible for the development and maintenance of the United States’ satellite reconnaissance infrastructure​.

Space Development Agency’s Missile Tracking Constellation

In addition to its intelligence-gathering satellites, SpaceX is also a critical partner in the U.S. Space Development Agency’s efforts to develop a missile-tracking and missile-detection satellite constellation. These satellites are designed to detect missile launches, track their trajectories, and provide early warnings to U.S. military forces, enabling them to intercept and neutralize incoming threats​.

The infrared sensor satellites, built in collaboration with defense contractor Leidos, are equipped with state-of-the-art missile detection systems that can identify and track enemy missiles from space. This is especially crucial given the increasing capabilities of near-peer adversaries like China and Russia, who have developed advanced missile systems capable of striking U.S. forces and allies around the world​.

By leveraging its expertise in launching and deploying satellites, SpaceX has helped the U.S. military develop a resilient space-based missile defense system that provides real-time tracking data to U.S. defense networks. These efforts are part of a broader push by the Department of Defense (DoD) to create a multi-layered defense system that can intercept missiles in various stages of flight, from launch to impact​.

Starlink: Dual-Use Commercial and Military Communications

While Starlink was initially developed as a commercial internet service provider, it has quickly become an essential asset for military communications, particularly in remote or conflict areas. Starlink’s high-bandwidth, low-latency internet service has been used by U.S. forces in various theaters of operation, including the conflict in Ukraine, where it has provided critical communication capabilities in areas where traditional infrastructure has been destroyed or is unavailable.

In addition to providing basic communication services, Starlink terminals have been integrated into U.S. military systems to provide secure, real-time data links between distributed forces. For example, during a large-scale live-fire exercise in 2020, the U.S. Air Force used Starlink to link military assets across the country, allowing them to coordinate attacks on drone and cruise missile targets. The success of this exercise demonstrated the viability of Starlink for military operations and solidified SpaceX’s role as a key provider of military communications​.

Proprietary Technologies and AI Integration

SpaceX is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its satellite and defense systems. AI is critical for managing the large constellations of satellites deployed by SpaceX, enabling automated monitoring, collision avoidance, and optimization of satellite orbits. AI also plays a vital role in the processing of the massive amounts of data collected by the company’s reconnaissance satellites.

In partnership with the DoD, SpaceX is exploring ways to leverage machine learning algorithms to improve the capabilities of its missile detection and tracking systems. By using AI to analyze data from infrared sensors, the U.S. military can detect anomalies and identify potential missile launches faster and with greater accuracy than traditional systems. This integration of AI into space defense systems represents a significant leap forward in the ability of U.S. forces to respond to emerging threats​.

Partnerships with the Department of Defense

SpaceX’s role in U.S. military defense extends beyond satellites and AI. The company has secured numerous contracts with the Department of Defense to provide launch services for military payloads. These contracts include the launch of classified national security satellites and the deployment of experimental military technologies into orbit.

In 2020, SpaceX was awarded a $316 million contract to launch a series of national security payloads for the U.S. Space Force. The Falcon Heavy rocket, one of the most powerful rockets ever built, is expected to be used for many of these launches due to its ability to carry large payloads into high orbits​. This contract solidifies SpaceX’s position as a critical provider of space launch services for the DoD, and the company is expected to continue playing a key role in U.S. military space operations for years to come.

Advanced Encryption and Cybersecurity

SpaceX has developed proprietary encryption technologies to ensure the security of its Starshield and Starlink communications networks. Given the increasing threats posed by cyberattacks, particularly from nation-state actors, SpaceX has integrated advanced cryptographic capabilities into its military-focused systems to protect sensitive data. These security measures meet the most stringent government requirements, making SpaceX’s satellites suitable for handling classified information and conducting secure communications in combat zones​

The company’s focus on cybersecurity extends to its user terminals, which are designed to be interoperable with both Starlink and Starshield constellations. This flexibility allows military users to switch between commercial and government-owned satellites as needed, ensuring secure communications regardless of the operational environment

Expanding Role in National Security

As SpaceX continues to develop and deploy new technologies, its role in U.S. national security is expanding rapidly. The company is not only a key provider of satellite and launch services but is also driving innovation in areas such as AI, missile defense, and secure communications. With its ability to deliver end-to-end solutions — from satellite design to launch and operation — SpaceX is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of the U.S. military.

In conclusion, SpaceX’s contributions to U.S. military defense have been transformative. Through projects like Starshield, the NRO spy satellite network, missile detection systems, and the use of AI, SpaceX is helping to create a new era of space-based defense capabilities. These efforts are critical to ensuring the U.S. maintains its strategic advantage in space, both in terms of intelligence-gathering and missile defense. With its proven ability to innovate and deliver results, SpaceX is set to remain a cornerstone of U.S. military space operations for the foreseeable future.

System/ProjectPurpose/RoleTechnical SpecificationsKey FeaturesPartners/Contracts
StarshieldMilitary satellite constellation for secure communications and payload hostingBuilt on Starlink’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite architecture. Includes secure encryption and high-assurance cryptographic capabilities.– Designed for U.S. government use with Earth observation, secure communications, and hosted payloads.
– Interoperable with Starlink via laser communication links.
– Enhanced resilience through proliferated LEO architecture.		SpaceX, U.S. Space Force, U.S. government agencies
StarlinkCommercial internet satellite system used for military communications– Operates in LEO (550 km altitude) with over 4,000 active satellites.
– User terminal: Flat-panel phased array antennas.		– High-speed internet (up to 150 Mbps) in remote and contested areas.
– Proven military use in Ukraine and U.S. Air Force operations.		SpaceX, U.S. Air Force, Department of Defense
NRO Spy Satellites (Unnamed Program)Intelligence gathering through low-orbit spy satellites– LEO-based satellite constellation.
– Swarming technology for continuous Earth observation.
– Equipped with advanced imaging systems and relay capabilities.		– Real-time tracking of ground-based targets globally.
– Designed to operate as a distributed network for continuous surveillance.		National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), SpaceX
Missile-Tracking SatellitesMissile detection and tracking using infrared sensors– Infrared sensors for missile detection.
– Scheduled to be deployed on Starshield and other classified satellites.		– Real-time missile tracking and early warning capabilities.
– Integration with the U.S. Space Force’s missile defense systems.		Space Development Agency, Leidos, SpaceX
Falcon 9 RocketLaunch vehicle for military and commercial payloads– Reusable two-stage rocket.
– Payload capacity to LEO: 22,800 kg (50,265 lbs).
– Propellant: Liquid oxygen (LOX) and RP-1 kerosene.		– Reusable first stage for cost-effective launches.
– Can carry a variety of military and civilian payloads to space.		SpaceX, U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Space Force
Falcon Heavy RocketHeavy-lift launch vehicle– Reusable first-stage with three Falcon 9 cores.
– Payload capacity to LEO: 63,800 kg (140,660 lbs).
– Same propellant as Falcon 9.		– Capable of carrying large military payloads.
– Heaviest operational rocket currently in use globally.		SpaceX, U.S. Department of Defense
RQ-180 (Linked to Starshield)Classified high-altitude, long-endurance surveillance UAV– Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)
– High-altitude, long-endurance.
– Capable of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and ground moving-target indicator (GMTI) functions.		– Operates in contested airspace for surveillance missions.
– Expected to support space-based ISR missions through Starshield.		U.S. Air Force, SpaceX (speculative link to Starshield for ISR)
Laser Communications System (Starshield/Starlink)High-speed data transfer between satellites and ground stations– SpaceX’s proprietary laser communication terminals.
– Operates in free space optical communication (FSO) bands.
– Speeds: up to 100 Gbps.		– Inter-satellite communication to reduce dependency on ground-based relays.
– Increased data transmission speed and range.		SpaceX, U.S. government agencies
AI Integration in Missile DetectionUse of AI for real-time data analysis and threat detection– AI-driven anomaly detection.
– Real-time data processing from infrared sensor arrays on missile-tracking satellites.		– Automates the identification of missile launches.
– Supports decision-making in missile interception.		SpaceX, Department of Defense
Encryption and Cybersecurity SystemsProtects military communications and data on Starshield and Starlink– High-assurance cryptographic modules.
– End-to-end encryption for secure data transmission.		– Meets government standards for classified communications.
– Hardened against cyberattacks and electromagnetic interference (EMI).		SpaceX, U.S. Department of Defense

This table provides a thorough technical overview of SpaceX’s contributions to U.S. military defense, including satellite systems, launch vehicles, proprietary technologies, and secure communications systems. The data is based on publicly available information from reliable sources and reflects SpaceX’s current position as a key defense contractor for the U.S. government.

APPENDIX 1 – Starshield – SPACE X

NumberLaunch dateFunctionLaunch vehicleOther designationsStatus
USA-35019/03/2024CommunicationsFalcon 9 Block 5StarshieldActive
USA-35119/03/2024CommunicationsFalcon 9 Block 5StarshieldActive
USA-35221/03/2024Technology demonstrationElectronNROL-123 (RASR-5)Active
USA-35309/04/2024SIGINTDelta IV HeavyNROL-70 (Orion 12)Active
USA-35422/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-35522/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-35622/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-35722/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-35822/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-35922/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36022/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36122/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36222/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36322/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36422/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36522/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36622/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36722/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36822/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36922/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37022/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37122/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37222/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37322/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37422/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37529/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37629/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-37729/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-37829/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-37929/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38029/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38129/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38229/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38329/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38429/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38529/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38629/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38729/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38829/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38929/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39029/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-39129/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39229/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39329/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39429/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39529/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39630/07/2024TBAAtlas V 551USSF-51Active
USA-39730/07/2024TBAAtlas V 551USSF-51Active
USA-39830/07/2024TBAAtlas V 551USSF-51Active
USA-39901/11/2022Technology demonstrationFalcon HeavyEntered service, presumed active

APPENDIX 2 – List of USA satellites – Defense – Military

NumberLaunch dateFunctionLaunch vehicleOther designationsStatus
USA-29507/09/2017ClassifiedFalcon 9UnknownUnknown
USA-29607/09/2017ClassifiedFalcon 9UnknownUnknown
USA-29707/09/2017ClassifiedFalcon 9UnknownUnknown
USA-28008/01/2018ClassifiedFalcon 9 Full ThrustZumaPresumably failed[16][17][18]
USA-29431/01/2020ClassifiedElectronNROL-151Unknown
USA-30113/06/2020ClassifiedElectronRASR-2
USA-30213/06/2020ClassifiedElectronRASR-2
USA-30313/06/2020ClassifiedElectronRASR-2
USA-428/08/1984CommunicationsTitan 34BSDSOut of service
USA-908/02/1985CommunicationsTitan 34BSDSOut of service
USA-1103/10/1985CommunicationsSpace Shuttle AtlantisDSCS-III-B4Out of service
USA-1203/10/1985CommunicationsSpace Shuttle AtlantisDSCS-III-B5Out of service
USA-2005/12/1986CommunicationsAtlas GFltsatcom-7
USA-2112/02/1987CommunicationsTitan 34BSDSOut of service
USA-4008/08/1989CommunicationsSpace Shuttle ColumbiaSDS-2
USA-4304/09/1989CommunicationsTitan 34D / TranstageDSCS-III-06
USA-4404/09/1989CommunicationsTitan 34D / TranstageDSCS-III-07
USA-4625/09/1989CommunicationsAtlas GFltsatcom-8
USA-5505/04/1990CommunicationsPegasusGLOMR-2/SECS/TERCEL
USA-6715/11/1990CommunicationsSpace Shuttle AtlantisSDS-2
USA-7811/02/1992CommunicationsAtlas IIDSCS-III-08
USA-8202/07/1992CommunicationsAtlas IIDSCS-III-09
USA-8902/12/1992CommunicationsSpace Shuttle DiscoverySDS-2
USA-9319/07/1993CommunicationsAtlas IIDSCS-III-10
USA-9503/09/1993CommunicationsAtlas IUHF F/O-2
USA-9728/11/1993CommunicationsAtlas IIDSCS-III-11
USA-9808/12/1993CommunicationsDelta II 7925NATO-4B
USA-9907/02/1994CommunicationsTitan IV / CentaurMilstar-DFS-1
USA-10424/06/1994CommunicationsAtlas IUHF F/O-3
USA-10829/01/1995CommunicationsAtlas IIUHF F/O-4
USA-11131/05/1995CommunicationsAtlas IIUHF F/O-5Decommissioned
USA-11331/07/1995CommunicationsAtlas IIADSCS-III-B7Decommissioned
USA-11422/10/1995CommunicationsAtlas IIUHF F/O-6
USA-11506/11/1995CommunicationsTitan IV / CentaurMilstar DFS-2
USA-12503/07/1996CommunicationsTitan IVSDS-2
USA-12725/07/1996CommunicationsAtlas IIUHF F/O-7
USA-13425/10/1997CommunicationsAtlas IIADSCS-III-B13
USA-13729/01/1998CommunicationsAtlas IIANROL-5 (SDS-3)
USA-13815/03/1998CommunicationsAtlas IIUHF F/O-8
USA-14020/10/1998CommunicationsAtlas IIAUHF F/O-9
USA-14330/04/1999CommunicationsTitan IV / CentaurMilstar DFS-3mFailed: 1999-04-30
USA-14623/11/1999CommunicationsAtlas IIAUHF F/O-10
USA-14821/01/2000CommunicationsAtlas IIADSCS-III-B8
USA-15320/10/2000CommunicationsAtlas IIADSCS-III-B11
USA-15506/12/2000CommunicationsAtlas IIASNROL-10 (SDS-3)
USA-15727/02/2001CommunicationsTitan IV / CentaurMilstar DFS-4
USA-16211/10/2001CommunicationsAtlas IIASNROL-2 (SDS-3)
USA-16416/01/2002CommunicationsTitan IV / CentaurMilstar DFS-5
USA-16711/03/2003CommunicationsDelta IV MDSCS-III-A3
USA-16908/04/2003CommunicationsTitan IV / CentaurMilstar DFS-6
USA-17029/08/2003CommunicationsDelta IV MDSCS-III-B6
USA-17418/12/2003CommunicationsAtlas IIIBUHF F/O-11
USA-17931/08/2004CommunicationsAtlas IIASNROL-1 (SDS-3)
USA-19511/10/2007CommunicationsAtlas V 421WGS-1
USA-19810/12/2007CommunicationsAtlas V 401NROL-24 (SDS-3)
USA-20404/04/2009CommunicationsAtlas V 421WGS-2Active
USA-21106/12/2009CommunicationsDelta IV M+(5,4)WGS-3Active
USA-21414/08/2010CommunicationsAtlas V 531AEHF-1Active
USA-22711/03/2011CommunicationsDelta IV M+(4,2)NROL-27 (SDS-3)Active
USA-23320/01/2012CommunicationsDelta IV M+(5,4)WGS-4Active
USA-23504/05/2012CommunicationsAtlas V 531AEHF-2Active
USA-23620/06/2012CommunicationsAtlas V 401NROL-38 (SDS-3)Active
USA-24325/05/2013CommunicationsDelta IV M+(5,4)WGS-5Active
USA-24408/08/2013CommunicationsDelta IV M+(5,4)WGS-6Active
USA-24618/09/2013CommunicationsAtlas V 531AEHF-3Active
USA-25222/05/2014CommunicationsAtlas V 401NROL-33 (SDS-3)Active
USA-26928/07/2016CommunicationsAtlas V 421NROL-61 (Quasar, Spike)Active
USA-27915/10/2017CommunicationsAtlas V 421NROL-52 (Quasar)Active
USA-28314/04/2018CommunicationsAtlas V 551AFSPC-11 / CBASActive
USA-28817/10/2018CommunicationsAtlas V 551AEHF-4Active
USA-29208/08/2019CommunicationsAtlas V 551AEHF-5Active
USA-29826/03/2020CommunicationsAtlas V 551AEHF-6Testing
USA-34216/01/2023CommunicationsFalcon HeavyCBAS 2
USA-35019/03/2024CommunicationsFalcon 9 Block 5StarshieldActive
USA-35119/03/2024CommunicationsFalcon 9 Block 5StarshieldActive
USA-14103/10/1998DebrisTaurusATEXFailed: 1999-01-16
USA-31518/05/2021Early warningAtlas V 421SBIRS GEO-5Entered service, presumed active
USA-33604/08/2022Early warningAtlas V 421SBIRS GEO-6Entered service, presumed active
USA-33201/07/2022Early warning / TechnologyAtlas V 541WFOV (USSF-12)Active
USA-325/05/1984ELINTTitan 34DSSF-DOut of service
USA-824/01/1985ELINTSpace Shuttle DiscoveryMagnumOut of service
USA-3102/09/1988ELINTTitan 34D / TranstageChaletFailed
USA-3205/09/1988ELINTTitan 23GSingleton/SBWASS-R
USA-3710/05/1989ELINTTitan 34D / TranstageChaletOut of service
USA-4108/08/1989ELINTSpace Shuttle ColumbiaSSF/COBRA BRASSDecayed: 1989-12-31
USA-4506/09/1989ELINTTitan 23GSingleton/SBWASS-RFailed
USA-4823/11/1989ELINTSpace Shuttle DiscoveryMagnum
USA-8125/04/1992ELINTTitan 23GSingleton/SBWASS-R
USA-10303/05/1994ELINTTitan IV / CentaurTrumpet
USA-10527/08/1994ELINTTitan IV / CentaurMercury
USA-11210/07/1995ELINTTitan IV / CentaurTrumpet
USA-11824/04/1996ELINTTitan IV / CentaurMercury
USA-13606/11/1997ELINTTitan IV / CentaurNROL-4 (Trumpet)
USA-18425/06/2006ELINTDelta IV M+(4,2)NROL-22 (Imp. Trumpet)
USA-20013/03/2008ELINTAtlas V 411NROL-28 (Imp. Trumpet)
USA-25010/04/2014ELINTAtlas V 541NROL-67Active
USA-25717/09/2014ELINTAtlas V 401CLIO[15]Active
USA-25913/12/2014ELINTAtlas V 401NROL-35Active
USA-27824/09/2017ELINTAtlas V 541NROL-42 (Trumpet)Active
USA-1509/02/1986ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas HNOSS (PARCAE/White Cloud)Out of service
USA-1609/02/1986ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas HNOSS (PARCAE/White Cloud)Out of service
USA-1709/02/1986ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas HNOSS (PARCAE/White Cloud)Out of service
USA-1809/02/1986ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas HNOSS (PARCAE/White Cloud)Out of service
USA-2215/05/1987ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas HNOSS (PARCAE/White Cloud)Out of service
USA-2315/05/1987ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas HNOSS (PARCAE/White Cloud)Out of service
USA-2415/05/1987ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas HNOSS (PARCAE/White Cloud)Out of service
USA-2515/05/1987ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas HNOSS (PARCAE/White Cloud)Out of service
USA-5908/06/1990ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-6008/06/1990ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-6108/06/1990ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-6208/06/1990ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-7208/11/1991ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-7408/11/1991ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-7608/11/1991ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-7708/11/1991ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-11912/05/1996ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-12012/05/1996ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-12112/05/1996ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-12212/05/1996ELINT / Ocean surveillanceTitan IVNOSS-2
USA-16008/09/2001ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas IIASNROL-13 (NOSS-3 “Intruder”)
USA-17302/12/2003ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas IIASNROL-18 (NOSS-3 “Intruder”)
USA-18103/02/2005ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas IIIBNROL-23 (NOSS-3 “Intruder”)
USA-19415/06/2007ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas V 401NROL-30 (NOSS-3 “Intruder”)
USA-22915/04/2011ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas V 411NROL-34 (NOSS-3 “Intruder”)Active
USA-23813/09/2012ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas V 401NROL-36 (NOSS-3 “Intruder”)Active
USA-26408/10/2015ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas V 401NROL-55 (NOSS-3 “Intruder”)Active
USA-27401/03/2017ELINT / Ocean surveillanceAtlas V 401NROL-79 (NOSS-3 “Intruder”)Active
USA-32717/04/2022ELINT / Ocean surveillanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-85 (NOSS-3 “Intruder”)Entered service, presumed active
USA-33301/07/2022ExperimentalAtlas V 541USSF-12 RingActive
USA-1313/12/1985Inflatable ASAT targetScout-GITV-1Failed. Decayed: 1989-05-11
USA-1413/12/1985Inflatable ASAT targetScout-GITV-2Decayed: 1987-08-09
USA-26324/07/2015Military communicationsDelta IV M+ (5,4)WGS-7Active
USA-27207/12/2016Military communicationsDelta IV M+ (5,4)WGS-8Active
USA-27519/03/2017Military communicationsDelta IV M+ (5,4)WGS-9Active
USA-29115/03/2019Military communicationsDelta IV M+ (5,4)WGS-10Active
USA-722/12/1984Missile detectionTitan 34D / TranstageDSP-2-6RRetired: 31 December 1994
USA-2829/11/1987Missile detectionTitan 34D / TranstageDSP-2-5RRetired: 1987-12-31
USA-3914/06/1989Missile detectionTitan IV / IUSDSP-1-14 F14Decommissioned
USA-6513/11/1990Missile detectionTitan IV / IUSDSP-1-14 F15Decommissioned
USA-7524/11/1991Missile detectionSpace Shuttle AtlantisDSP-1-14-F16
USA-10722/12/1994Missile detectionTitan IV / IUSDSP-1 F17Active
USA-13023/02/1997Missile detectionTitan IVB/IUSDSP-1-18 F18Out of service
USA-14908/05/2000Missile detectionTitan IVB/IUSDSP-1-18 F20Active
USA-15906/08/2001Missile detectionTitan IVB/IUSDSP-1-18 F21Active
USA-17614/02/2004Missile detectionTitan IVB/IUSDSP-1-18 F22Active
USA-19711/11/2007Missile detectionDelta IV HeavyDSP-1-18 F23Failed
USA-23007/05/2011Missile detectionAtlas V 401SBIRS GEO-1Active
USA-24119/03/2013Missile detectionAtlas V 401SBIRS GEO-2Active
USA-27321/01/2017Missile detectionAtlas V 401SBIRS GEO-3Commissioning
USA-28220/01/2018Missile detectionAtlas V 411SBIRS GEO-4Active
USA-113/06/1984NavigationAtlas E/FNavstar-9Out of service
USA-508/09/1984NavigationAtlas E/FNavstar-10Out of service
USA-1009/10/1985NavigationAtlas E/FNavstar-11Out of service
USA-3514/02/1989NavigationDelta II 6925-9.5GPS-II-1Retired: 2000-04-14
USA-3810/06/1989NavigationDelta II 6925-9.5GPS-II-2Out of service
USA-4218/08/1989NavigationDelta II 6925-9.5GPS-II-3Out of service
USA-4721/10/1989NavigationDelta II 6925-9.5GPS-II-4Out of service
USA-4911/12/1989NavigationDelta II 6925-9.5GPS-II-5Out of service
USA-5024/01/1990NavigationDelta II 6925-9.5GPS-II-6Out of service
USA-5426/03/1990NavigationDelta II 6925-9.5GPS-II-7Failed: 1996-05-21
USA-6302/08/1990NavigationDelta II 6925-9.5GPS-II-8Out of service
USA-6401/10/1990NavigationDelta II 6925-9.5GPS-II-9Out of service
USA-6626/11/1990NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-1Out of service
USA-7104/07/1991NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-2Out of service
USA-7923/02/1992NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-3Decommissioned
USA-8010/04/1992NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-4Out of service
USA-8307/07/1992NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-5Out of service
USA-8409/09/1992NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-6Out of service
USA-8522/11/1992NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-7Out of service
USA-8718/12/1992NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-8Out of service
USA-8803/02/1993NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-9Out of service
USA-9030/03/1993NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-10Out of service
USA-9113/05/1993NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-11Out of service
USA-9226/06/1993NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-12Out of service
USA-9430/08/1993NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-13Out of service
USA-9626/10/1993NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-14Out of service
USA-10010/03/1994NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-15Out of service
USA-11728/03/1996NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-16Out of service
USA-12616/07/1996NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-17Decommissioned
USA-12812/09/1996NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-18Out of service
USA-13223/07/1997NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-2Active
USA-13506/11/1997NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIA-19Out of service
USA-14507/10/1999NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-3
USA-15011/05/2000NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-4
USA-15116/07/2000NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-5
USA-15410/11/2000NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-6Decommissioned
USA-15630/01/2001NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-7
USA-16629/01/2003NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-8
USA-16831/03/2003NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-9
USA-17521/12/2003NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-10
USA-17720/03/2004NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-11
USA-17823/06/2004NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-12
USA-18006/11/2004NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-13
USA-18326/09/2005NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-14 (IIRM-1)
USA-19025/09/2006NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-15 (IIRM-2)Active
USA-19217/11/2006NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-16 (IIRM-3)Active
USA-19617/10/2007NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-17 (IIRM-4)Active
USA-19920/12/2007NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-18 (IIRM-5)Active
USA-20115/03/2008NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-19 (IIRM-6)Active
USA-20324/03/2009NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS-IIR-20 (IIRM-7)Active
USA-20617/08/2009NavigationDelta II 7925-9.5GPS IIR-21 (IIRM-8)Active
USA-21328/05/2010NavigationDelta IV M+(4,2)GPS IIF-1Active
USA-23216/07/2011NavigationDelta IV M+(4,2)GPS IIF-2Active
USA-23904/10/2012NavigationDelta IV M+(4,2)GPS IIF-3Active
USA-24215/05/2013NavigationAtlas V 401GPS IIF-4Active
USA-24821/02/2014NavigationDelta IV M+(4,2)GPS IIF-5Active
USA-25117/05/2014NavigationDelta IV M+(4,2)GPS IIF-6Active
USA-25602/08/2014NavigationAtlas V 401GPS IIF-7Active
USA-25829/10/2014NavigationAtlas V 401GPS IIF-8Active
USA-26025/03/2015NavigationDelta IV M+(4,2)GPS IIF-9Active
USA-26215/07/2015NavigationAtlas V 401GPS IIF-10Active
USA-26531/10/2015NavigationAtlas V 401GPS IIF-11Active
USA-26605/02/2016NavigationAtlas V 401GPS IIF-12Active
USA-28923/12/2018NavigationFalcon 9 Block 5GPS III-SV01Active
USA-29322/08/2019NavigationDelta IVGPS III-SV02Active
USA-30430/06/2020NavigationFalcon 9 Block 5GPS III-SV03Active
USA-30905/11/2020NavigationFalcon 9 Block 5GPS III-SV04
USA-31917/06/2021NavigationFalcon 9 Block 5GPS III-SV05
USA-34318/01/2023NavigationFalcon 9 Block 5GPS III-SV06Active
USA-31426/04/2021Optical reconnaissanceDelta IV HeavyNROL-82 (EIS)Entered service, presumed active
USA-33824/09/2022Optical reconnaissanceDelta IV HeavyNROL-91 (KH-11 19)Entered service, presumed active
USA-8628/11/1992Optical reconnaissanceTitan IVKH-11
USA-11605/12/1995Optical reconnaissanceTitan IVKH-11Presumed deorbited
USA-12920/12/1996Optical reconnaissanceTitan IV412 (KH-11)Out of service
USA-16105/10/2001Optical reconnaissanceTitan IVBNROL-14 (KH-11)Active
USA-18619/10/2005Optical reconnaissanceTitan IVBNROL-20 (KH-11)Active
USA-22420/01/2011Optical reconnaissanceDelta IV HeavyNROL-49 (KH-11 Kennen)Active
USA-23130/06/2011Optical reconnaissanceMinotaur IORS-1Active
USA-24528/08/2013Optical reconnaissanceDelta IV HeavyNROL-65 (KH-11 Kennen)Active
USA-29019/01/2019Optical reconnaissanceDelta IV HeavyNROL-71 (KH-11 Kennen)Active
USA-32602/02/2022Optical reconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-87Entered service, presumed active
USA-27601/05/2017Radar ImagingFalcon 9 Full ThrustNROL-76Active
USA-3402/12/1988Radar reconnaissanceSpace Shuttle AtlantisLacrosseDeorbited: 1997-03-25
USA-6908/03/1991Radar reconnaissanceTitan IVLacrosseOut of service
USA-13324/10/1997Radar reconnaissanceTitan IVNROL-3 (Lacrosse)Active
USA-15217/08/2000Radar reconnaissanceTitan IVBNROL-11 (Lacrosse/Onyx)Active
USA-18230/04/2005Radar reconnaissanceTitan IVBNROL-16 (Lacrosse/Onyx)Active
USA-21521/09/2010Radar reconnaissanceAtlas V 501NROL-41 (FIA-R)Active
USA-23403/04/2012Radar reconnaissanceDelta IV M+(5,2)NROL-25 (FIA-R)Active
USA-24706/12/2013Radar reconnaissanceAtlas V 501NROL-39 (FIA-R)Active
USA-26710/02/2016Radar reconnaissanceDelta IV M+(5,2)NROL-45 (FIA-R)Active
USA-28112/01/2018Radar reconnaissanceDelta IV M+(5,2)NROL-47 (FIA-R)Active
USA-225/05/1984ReconnaissanceTitan 34DKH-9Deorbited: 18 October 1984
USA-604/12/1984ReconnaissanceTitan 34DKH-11Decayed: 31 December 1990
USA-2726/10/1987ReconnaissanceTitan 34DKH-11Decayed: 1992-05-31
USA-3306/11/1988ReconnaissanceTitan 34DKH-11Out of service
USA-5328/02/1990ReconnaissanceSpace Shuttle AtlantisMistyPresumed deorbited
USA-14422/05/1999ReconnaissanceTitan IVNROL-9 (Misty)Unknown
USA-31615/06/2021ReconnaissanceMinotaur INROL-111Entered service, presumed active
USA-31715/06/2021ReconnaissanceMinotaur INROL-111Entered service, presumed active
USA-31815/06/2021ReconnaissanceMinotaur INROL-111Entered service, presumed active
USA-35422/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-35522/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-35622/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-35722/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-35822/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-35922/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36022/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36122/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36222/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36322/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36422/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36522/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36622/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36722/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36822/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-36922/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37022/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37122/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37222/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37322/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37422/05/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37529/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-37629/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-37729/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-37829/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-37929/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38029/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38129/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38229/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38329/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38429/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38529/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38629/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38729/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38829/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-38929/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39029/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-146Active
USA-39129/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39229/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39329/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39429/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-39529/06/2024ReconnaissanceFalcon 9 Block 5NROL-186Active
USA-21626/09/2010Satellite trackingMinotaur IVSBSS-1Active
USA-21820/11/2010ScienceMinotaur IV / HAPSRAXActive
USA-1905/09/1986Sensor developmentDelta 3920SDIDeorbited: 1986-09-28
USA-11014/05/1995SIGINTTitan IV / CentaurMentor
USA-13909/05/1998SIGINTTitan IV / CentaurNROL-6 (Mentor)
USA-17109/09/2003SIGINTTitan IV / CentaurNROL-19 (Mentor)
USA-20218/01/2009SIGINTDelta IV HeavyNROL-26 (Mentor)Active
USA-20708/09/2009SIGINTAtlas V 401Palladium At Night (PAN)Active?
USA-22321/11/2010SIGINTDelta IV HeavyNROL-32 (Mentor)Active
USA-23729/06/2012SIGINTDelta IV HeavyNROL-15 (Imp. Mentor)Active
USA-26811/06/2016SIGINTDelta IV HeavyNROL-37 (Orion / Mentor)Active
USA-31110/12/2020SIGINTDelta IV HeavyNROL-44 (mentor)
USA-34522/06/2023SIGINTDelta IV HeavyNROL-68 (Orion 11)Active
USA-35309/04/2024SIGINTDelta IV HeavyNROL-70 (Orion 12)Active
USA-34610/09/2023Space domain awarenessAtlas V 551NROL-107 (Silentbarker 1)Entered service, presumed active
USA-34710/09/2023Space domain awarenessAtlas V 551NROL-107 (Silentbarker 2)Entered service, presumed active
USA-34810/09/2023Space domain awarenessAtlas V 551NROL-107 (Silentbarker 3)Entered service, presumed active
USA-32421/01/2022Space surveillanceAtlas V 511GSSAP 5 (Hornet 5)Active
USA-32521/01/2022Space surveillanceAtlas V 511GSSAP 6 (Hornet 6)Active
USA-25328/07/2014SurveillanceDelta IV M+(4,2)GSSAP 1Active
USA-25428/07/2014SurveillanceDelta IV M+(4,2)GSSAP 2Out of service
USA-27019/08/2016SurveillanceDelta IV M+(4,2)GSSAP 3Active
USA-27119/08/2016SurveillanceDelta IV M+(4,2)GSSAP 4Active
USA-39630/07/2024TBAAtlas V 551USSF-51Active
USA-39730/07/2024TBAAtlas V 551USSF-51Active
USA-39830/07/2024TBAAtlas V 551USSF-51Active
USA-5114/02/1990TechnologyDelta II 6920-8LACE/Losat-LDecayed: 2000-05-24
USA-5214/02/1990TechnologyDelta II 6920-8RME/Losat-RDecayed: 1992-05-24
USA-5611/04/1990TechnologyAtlas E/FP87-2/Stacksat/POGS/SSR[2]Out of service
USA-5711/04/1990TechnologyAtlas E/FP87-2/Stacksat/TEX[3]Out of service
USA-5811/04/1990TechnologyAtlas E/FP87-2/Stacksat/SCE[3]Out of service
USA-12312/05/1996TechnologyTitan IVTIPS-Ralph
USA-12412/05/1996TechnologyTitan IVTIPS-Norton
USA-18721/06/2006TechnologyDelta II 7925MiTEx-A
USA-18821/06/2006TechnologyDelta II 7925MiTEx-B
USA-18921/06/2006TechnologyDelta II 7925MiTEx Carrier
USA-20505/05/2009TechnologyDelta II 7920-10CSTSS-ATRRActive
USA-20825/09/2009TechnologyDelta II 7920-10CSTSS-DemoDecommissioned[9]
USA-20925/09/2009TechnologyDelta II 7920-10CSTSS-DemoDecommissioned[9]
USA-21222/04/2010TechnologyAtlas V 501Boeing X-37B OTV-1Landed: 2010-12-03
USA-21720/11/2010TechnologyMinotaur IV / HAPSSTPSat-1Active
USA-21920/11/2010TechnologyMinotaur IV / HAPSO/OREOSActive
USA-22120/11/2010TechnologyMinotaur IV / HAPSFalconSAT-5Active
USA-22220/11/2010TechnologyMinotaur IV / HAPSFASTRACActive
USA-22820/11/2010TechnologyMinotaur IV/HAPSFASTRACActive
USA-22506/02/2011TechnologyMinotaur INROL-66 (Rapid Pathfinder Prototype)Active
USA-22605/03/2011TechnologyAtlas V 501Boeing X-37B OTV-2Landed: 2012-06-16
USA-24011/12/2012TechnologyAtlas V 501Boeing X-37B OTV-3Landed: 2014-10-17
USA-25528/07/2014TechnologyDelta IV M+(4,2)ANGELSOut of service
USA-26120/05/2015TechnologyAtlas V 501Boeing X-37B OTV-4Landed: 2017-05-07
USA-27707/09/2017TechnologyFalcon 9 Full ThrustBoeing X-37B OTV-5Active
USA-29917/05/2020TechnologyAtlas V 501Boeing X-37B OTV-6 (USSF-7)Landed: 2022-11-12
USA-34929/12/2023TechnologyFalcon HeavyX-37B OTV-7 (USSF-52)Active
USA-22020/11/2010Technology demonstrationMinotaur IV / HAPSFASTSATActive
USA-28414/04/2018Technology demonstrationAtlas V 551AFSPC-11 / EAGLEActive
USA-33901/11/2022Technology demonstrationFalcon HeavyShepherd DemonstrationEntered service, presumed active
USA-34001/11/2022Technology demonstrationFalcon HeavyEntered service, presumed active
USA-34101/11/2022Technology demonstrationFalcon HeavyEntered service, presumed active
USA-34401/11/2022Technology demonstrationFalcon HeavyUSUVLActive
USA-39901/11/2022Technology demonstrationFalcon HeavyEntered service, presumed active
USA-35221/03/2024Technology demonstrationElectronNROL-123 (RASR-5)Active
USA-7028/04/1991Technology developmentSpace Shuttle DiscoveryMPEC
USA-10113/03/1994Technology developmentTaurusSTEP-0
USA-10213/03/1994Technology developmentTaurusDarpaSat
USA-16511/04/2005Technology developmentMinotaurXSS-11
USA-18523/09/2005Technology developmentMinotaurSTP-R1
USA-15818/05/2001Technology / CommunicationsDelta II 7925-9.5NROL-17 (GeoLITE)
USA-3008/02/1988Training satelliteDelta 3910SDIDeorbited: 1988-03-01
USA-2620/06/1987WeatherAtlas E/FDMSP-5D2 F3 (S8)
USA-2903/02/1988WeatherAtlas E/FDMSP-5D2 F4 (S-9)
USA-6801/12/1990WeatherAtlas E/FDMSP-5D2 F5 (S-10)Failed
USA-7328/11/1991WeatherAtlas E/FDMSP-5D2 F6 (S-12)
USA-10629/08/1994WeatherAtlas E/FDMSP 5D-1 F12
USA-10924/03/1995WeatherAtlas E/FDMSP 5D-1 F13Destroyed: 2015-02-03
USA-13104/04/1997WeatherTitan 23GDMSP 5D-2 F14
USA-14712/12/1999WeatherTitan 23GDMSP 5D-3 F15
USA-17218/10/2003WeatherTitan 23GDMSP 5D-3 F16
USA-19104/11/2006WeatherDelta IV MDMSP 5D-3 F17
USA-21018/10/2009WeatherAtlas V 401DMSP-5D-3 F18Active
USA-24903/04/2014WeatherAtlas V 401DMSP-5D-3 F19Inactive[14]
USA-3624/03/1989Delta 3920-8Delta StarDecayed: 1992-06-23
USA-30017/05/2020Atlas V 501FalconSAT-8
USA-30515/07/2020Minotaur IV / Orion 38NROL-129
USA-30615/07/2020Minotaur IV / Orion 38NROL-129
USA-30715/07/2020Minotaur IV / Orion 38NROL-129
USA-30815/07/2020Minotaur IV / Orion 38NROL-129
USA-31013/11/2020Atlas V 531NROL-101
USA-31219/12/2020Falcon 9 Block 5NROL-108
USA-31319/12/2020Falcon 9 Block 5NROL-108
USA-32013/01/2022Falcon 9 Block 5Unknown
USA-32113/01/2022Falcon 9 Block 5UnknownDecayed: 2023-04-01
USA-32213/01/2022Falcon 9 Block 5UnknownDecayed: 2023-04-02
USA-32313/01/2022Falcon 9 Block 5UnknownDecayed: 2023-04-02
USA-32819/06/2022Falcon 9 Block 5Unknown
USA-32919/06/2022Falcon 9 Block 5Unknown
USA-33019/06/2022Falcon 9 Block 5Unknown
USA-33119/06/2022Falcon 9 Block 5Unknown
USA-33701/07/2022Atlas V 541Unknown
USA-33413/07/2022ElectronNROL-162 (RASR-3)
USA-33504/08/2022ElectronNROL-199 (RASR-4)

APPENDIX 3 – E-3 Sentry (AWACS) Technical Overview

Mission

The E-3 Sentry is an airborne warning and control system (AWACS) designed for integrated command and control battle management (C2BM), surveillance, target detection, and tracking. It provides a comprehensive, real-time overview of the battlespace, including situational awareness of all friendly, neutral, and hostile entities, and early detection of threats. The aircraft can be deployed in joint, allied, and coalition operations to provide theater-wide surveillance and command and control functions.

Features and Capabilities

Airframe and Radar Configuration:

  • Base Aircraft: Modified Boeing 707/320 commercial airframe.
  • Radar Dome (Rotodome):
    • Dimensions: 30 feet (9.1 meters) in diameter, 6 feet (1.8 meters) thick.
    • Mounting Height: 11 feet (3.33 meters) above the fuselage.
    • Strut System: Supported by two struts.
    • Radar Range: Greater than 250 miles (375.5 km), capable of detecting targets from the Earth’s surface to the stratosphere over land or sea.
    • IFF Capability: Integrated Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) subsystem to distinguish between enemy and friendly aircraft.

Surveillance and Detection:

  • Provides all-altitude, all-weather surveillance of the battlefield.
  • Capable of tracking and identifying low-flying aircraft by filtering out ground clutter.
  • Real-time data transmission to command centers for situational awareness and battle management.

Subsystems:

  • Avionics
  • Navigation
  • Communications
  • Sensors:
    • Radar (primary active surveillance)
    • Passive detection systems
  • Identification Tools:
    • IFF/SIF (Selective Identification Feature)

Mission Suite:

  • Consoles display data in graphic and tabular formats.
  • Crew responsibilities: surveillance, identification, weapons control, battle management, and communications.

Data Management:

  • Broad and detailed battlefield data, including positions of enemy aircraft, ships, and status of friendly forces.
  • Data relayed to command centers, supporting air-ground and naval operations.
  • In critical situations, data can be forwarded to the President and Secretary of Defense.

Operational Role

Air-to-Ground Operations:

  • Supports interdiction, reconnaissance, airlift, and close-air support missions.
  • Direct information transmission for maintaining control of air battles.

Air Defense:

  • Detects, identifies, and tracks enemy aircraft far from U.S. and NATO borders.
  • Directs fighter aircraft for interception and response to detected threats.

C2BM and ISR Integration:

  • AWACS can operate standalone or in combination with other C2BM and ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) elements.
  • Participates in decentralized execution of air tasking orders.
  • Data exchange via advanced datalinks with C2 systems and tactical assets.

Mobility and Survivability:

  • Airborne platform increases survivability over ground-based radar systems.
  • Flexible flight path adjustments based on mission requirements and threat environments.

Range and Endurance:

  • Flight Duration: 8 hours unrefueled.
  • In-flight Refueling: Extends mission duration significantly, supported by onboard crew rest areas.

Development and Evolution

Initial Development:

  • First engineering test and evaluation in October 1975.
  • Initial delivery to 552nd Air Control Wing in March 1977.

Global Inventory:

  • U.S. Air Force Inventory: 31 E-3 Sentry aircraft.
    • 27 based at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma.
    • 4 at Kadena AB, Japan, and Elmendorf AFB, Alaska.
  • NATO: 17 E-3A aircraft delivered since January 1982.
  • United Kingdom: 7 E-3 Sentry.
  • France: 4 E-3 Sentry.
  • Saudi Arabia: 5 E-3 Sentry.
  • Japan: 4 AWACS based on Boeing 767 airframes.

Operational History:

  • Proven capabilities in major conflicts, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and NATO-led operations like Odyssey Dawn and Unified Protector.
  • Continuous support for operations like Northern and Southern Watch, Noble Eagle, and Enduring Freedom.
  • Humanitarian missions, including post-hurricane relief in the U.S.

AWACS Reserve Associate Program:

  • Established in March 1996, with the 513th Air Control Group responsible for augmenting the active-duty fleet.

Modernization Efforts:

  • Radar System Improvement Program (RSIP):
    • Enhancements to radar electronic countermeasures.
    • Improved system reliability and operational efficiency.
  • Block 40/45 Modernization:
    • Replaces 1970s-era mission computing with modern, open-system architecture.
    • Significant enhancements in C2BM capabilities, completed fleet upgrades by 2020.

General Characteristics

ParameterValue
Primary FunctionAirborne battle management, command, and control
ContractorBoeing Aerospace Co.
Power PlantFour Pratt & Whitney TF33-PW-100A turbofan engines
Thrust20,500 pounds each engine at sea level
Rotodome30 feet (9.1 meters) diameter, 6 feet (1.8 meters) thick
Wingspan145 feet, 9 inches (44.4 meters)
Length152 feet, 11 inches (46.6 meters)
Height41 feet, 9 inches (13 meters)
Zero Fuel Weight205,000 pounds (92,986 kilograms)
Maximum Takeoff Weight325,000 pounds (147,418 kilograms)
Fuel Capacity21,000 gallons (79,494 liters)
Speed360 mph (Mach 0.48) optimum cruise speed
RangeOver 5,000 nautical miles (9,250 kilometers)
CeilingAbove 29,000 feet (8,788 meters)
Crew4 flight crew + 13-19 mission specialists
Unit Cost$270 million (1998 fiscal constant dollars)
Initial Operating CapabilityApril 1978
Active Inventory32 aircraft, including one test unit

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