York Space Systems confirms health of all 21 SDA Tranche 1 satellites

Published Jul 20, 03:18 PM UTC

York Space Systems 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—a significant improvement over earlier launches that faced delays. SDA Director Gurpartap Sandhoo noted the checkout process is expected to be smoother. The satellites will perform orbit-raising maneuvers to reach approximately 1,000 km altitude. SDA plans to launch 154 Tranche 1 satellites to provide tactical data links, missile warning, and beyond-line-of-sight targeting for military users, with initial operations expected next year.