York Space Systems confirms health of all 21 SDA satellites

Published Jul 20, 03:18 PM UTC

York Space Systems announced it has confirmed the health of all 21 satellites launched on July 16 as part of the Space Development Agency's (SDA) Tranche 1 data transport constellation. The satellites, launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, made contact within hours of deployment, a significant improvement over previous launches that faced technical challenges and lengthy checkout periods. SDA Director Gurpartap Sandhoo noted the agency worked closely with York and other providers to streamline the process. The satellites will undergo orbit-raising maneuvers to reach approximately 1,000 km altitude before transitioning to SDA ground operations. SDA plans to launch 154 total Tranche 1 satellites to provide tactical data links, missile warning, and beyond-line-of-sight targeting for military users, with operational capability expected next year.