Lockheed Martin announced that it has selected Terran Orbital to provide satellite buses for the U.S. Space Development Agency’s (SDA) Tranche 3 Tracking Layer program, which will comprise 18 next‑generation missile‑tracking satellites.
The selection follows the broader SDA Tranche 3 awards announced on December 19, 2025, which include Lockheed Martin’s primary contract valued at more than $1 billion. Terran Orbital will supply the standardized high‑rate satellite bus platforms that enable rapid production and reduce development risk for the 18 payloads.
Terran Orbital’s proven bus design and rapid manufacturing capability are critical to meeting the tight timelines of the SDA Tranche 3 program, according to Terran Orbital President and CEO Peter Krauss. The partnership allows Lockheed Martin to accelerate deployment of the constellation and strengthen its position in the U.S. space‑defense market.
The contract underscores a broader trend of prime contractors integrating specialized suppliers to scale large constellations. It also highlights Lockheed Martin’s strategy to expand beyond traditional aerospace and defense products by leveraging advanced manufacturing capabilities in the space sector.
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