The Provisional Head of Pentagon Procurement Office has instructed to check the activities of the Space Agency for Development (Space Development Agency, SDA) Regarding the creation of a satellite network for tracking missiles and data transmission. In his Memorandum Stephen Morani, who performs the duties of Deputy Defense Minister for Procurement and Supply, called the Air Force Ministry (USAF) form an independent panel to evaluate the work of the SDA and its approach to procurement.
What is SDA? ?
SDA was created in 2019 year with the aim of rapidly deploying a large number of satellites in low Earth orbit. These satellites are designed for data transmission, tracking missiles and strengthening existing systems.
In April 2023 In 2016, the agency launched the first batch of satellites called Tranche 0. The next party, Tranche 1, should start this spring. Although the launch of the satellites was delayed due to problems with suppliers, SDA plans to launch its first operational satellites into space by 2026 year.
Verification task.
The purpose of the inspection is to assess the SDA's readiness to implement the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture program. It includes not only satellites, but also the ground infrastructure for their management, communication systems, navigation and missile tracking.
The inspection will also take into account:
- risks, related to contracts, financing and implementation schedule;
- organizational processes, structure, SDA personnel and its position as an autonomous unit within the US Space Force.
Current situation in SDA.
Currently, SDA is a separate organization, яка підпорядковується Міністру Повітряних Сил з питань космічних закупівель та інтеграції і Головному командувачу Космічних сил США. It works independently of the main development and procurement body of the Space Forces — Space Systems Command.