Space Development Agency Successfully Completes Third Launch of Tranche 1 Satellites
More than 60 data transport Tranche 1 satellites now on orbit for Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture
July 16, 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Space Development Agency (SDA) today announced the third successful launch of the Tranche 1 (T1) satellites for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, which brings the total number of on-orbit T1 space vehicles (SVs) to 63.
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket delivered 21 data transport T1 SVs, built by York Space Systems, into low Earth orbit (LEO). These SVs will enhance the tracking of advanced missile threats by providing secure, low-latency, beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) tactical communication links, delivering a resilient, optically-connected network of integrated capabilities to the warfighter at mission-relevant speed.
“This launch continues to expand warfighting capability to deliver persistent tactical satellite communication for the warning and tracking of advanced missile threats,” said GP Sandhoo, SDA Director and Space Force Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Missile Warning and Tracking. “In close coordination with Space Systems Command (SSC) and Space Launch Delta 30, the deployment of Tranche 1’s proliferated capability will soon deliver continuous overwatch—neutralizing any first-mover advantage by delivering data to warfighters around the world, nearly instantaneously.”
Now in their insertion orbit, SDA’s SVs will progress through test and checkout activities, then perform orbit-raising maneuvers to reach their target of approximately 1,000 km altitude and transition into operations in support of the joint force.
Tranche 1, the initial Warfighting Tranche, will provide initial warfighting capability beginning in 2027. This includes persistent regional tactical data links, enhanced missile tracking/warning, beyond-line-of-sight targeting, and UHF/S-band tactical satellite communication demonstrations – aligned to combatant command warfighting priorities.
The Tranche 1 space and ground segments are built using a multi-vendor ecosystem to encourage competition and drive resiliency. Once on-orbit delivery is completed, the T1 constellation will consist of a total of 154 operational SVs including 126 Transport Layer SVs and 28 Tracking Layer SVs, plus four missile defense demonstration SVs. Two advanced Space Operations Centers in Alabama and North Dakota will anchor network operations, backed by a global network of ground entry points.
T1 launches are provided through the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program and overseen by SSC’s System Delta 80 (SYD 80) and the Space Force Program Acquisition Executive for Assured Access to Space. The T1 launch campaign will continue until the full constellation is delivered on orbit.
“The National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program team successfully executed a launch today for our Space Development Agency partners, helping build out another orbital plane for their data Transport Layer,” said U.S. Space Force Col. Ryan Hiserote, SSC SYD 80 commander. “We look forward to continuing our close partnership to deliver additional Tranche 1 and 2 missions for SDA over the next two years as part of NSSL’s continued delivery of responsive and reliable launch for our nation.”
SDA’s Tranches are primarily focused on the warning and tracking of advanced missile threats, enabled by a network of optically-connected SVs to provide tactical data delivery to the warfighter, and beyond-line-of-sight targeting for terrestrial time-sensitive or mobile targets. This capability is integrated into the U.S. Space Force’s holistic hybrid missile warning/missile tracking/missile defense architecture in support of joint force operations and delivering warfighting capabilities
About the Space Development Agency. As an integral part of the U.S. Space Force, SDA is recognized as a constructive disruptor for space acquisition. SDA will accelerate delivery of needed space-based capabilities to the joint warfighter to support terrestrial missions through development, fielding, and operation of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. For more information on SDA, contact USSF.SDA.Outreach@mail.mil or visit https://www.sda.mil.
About Space Systems Command, Systems Delta 80. SYD 80 executes the U.S. Space Force’s core function of Space Access, performing space lift and range control missions in close partnership with SSC’s 30th and 45th Space Launch Deltas. Additionally, SYD 80 develops resilient and ready launch and test infrastructure to expand U.S. economic, technological, and scientific leadership, and delivers servicing, mobility, and logistics capabilities that operate in, from, and to the space domain.
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