"The Space Force argues the global strategic landscape has shifted enough to require combining existing missile defense systems with next-generation space-based tracking and AI-enabled interceptors. The latter is necessary to counter the speed, manoeuvrability, and lethality of the threats."
"Bryon McClain, program head and USSF Colonel, said OTAs allow the Space Force to bring in both traditional and non-traditional vendors to take advantage of some of the more innovation-focused startups."
"The Union of Concerned Scientists estimated that an effective space-based interceptor network would require hundreds to several thousand orbiting interceptors and cost at least $300 billion, which was roughly 10 times the price of ground-based alternatives."
The US Space Force has contracted eleven companies, including major defense firms and newer tech startups, to develop space-based interceptors for the Golden Dome program. This initiative, established following a 2025 Executive Order, aims to enhance missile defense against various aerial threats. The use of Other Transaction Authority agreements allows for flexibility in vendor selection. The program faces skepticism regarding its feasibility and cost, with estimates suggesting a need for hundreds to thousands of interceptors and a budget of at least $300 billion.
Read at Theregister
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]