Jakarta, ThedailyID — SpaceX has secured a major U.S. government contract worth US$45 billion, or around Rp741 trillion, to develop a satellite network designed to detect and track airborne threats.
The project forms part of the United States’ broader missile defense modernization effort. The satellite constellation will provide early warning capabilities against advanced threats, including ballistic and hypersonic missiles.
Under the agreement, SpaceX will design and deploy hundreds of satellites in low-Earth orbit. The system aims to strengthen real-time surveillance and improve the military’s ability to identify potential attacks more quickly.
The satellite network will support the U.S. Department of Defense’s efforts to build a more integrated defense architecture. Officials believe space-based sensors can provide wider coverage and faster threat detection than many ground-based systems.
The contract represents one of the largest defense-related agreements ever awarded to SpaceX. It also highlights the company’s growing role in national security projects beyond its commercial launch and internet businesses.
SpaceX has increasingly expanded its defense portfolio in recent years. The company already provides launch services for military missions and operates satellite infrastructure used by government agencies.
The new project comes as global powers continue investing heavily in missile defense technologies. Governments are seeking more advanced systems to counter evolving threats, particularly hypersonic weapons that travel at extremely high speeds and can be difficult to intercept.
Defense officials expect the satellite network to improve battlefield awareness and strengthen the country’s ability to respond to emerging aerial threats.
The project will be developed over several years, with deployment expected to occur in phases as new satellites become operational.
