The Space Development Agency has postponed the launch of its operational satellites designed for data relay and missile warning/tracking, now set for late summer. This decision was made by current SDA leadership, following the suspension of Director Derek Tournear over contract management issues. Initially, the launch was planned for September 2024, but it has shifted to late 2024 or early 2025. The Tranche 1 initiative will deploy a constellation of 158 satellites. Despite setbacks, SDA aims to launch monthly until all satellites reach orbit.
"SDA continues to aggressively work toward the first Tranche 1 launch; however, as we progress through a normal assembly, integration, and testing campaign, we have adjusted our timeline to ensure everything is fully operational before launch."
"The first launch will involve Transport Layer birds, an SDA official told reporters today, but the agency is not yet sure how many satellites will go up and whether satellites from all of the three current vendors will be included."
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