SpaceX launches first batch of new spy satellites for NRO

The National Reconnaissance Office launched an undisclosed number of next-generation spy satellites into orbit today. 

The mission, called NROL-146, was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California early Wednesday morning, and comprise the beginning of a future constellation of intelligence satellites.

“This mission is the first launch of the NRO’s proliferated systems featuring responsive collection and rapid data delivery. NROL-146 represents the first launch of an operational system following demonstrations in recent years to verify cost and performance,” the NRO said.

The agency hasn’t disclosed how many satellites are in the first launch or how many they want in the constellation in total. 

While details remain scarce, Reuters previously reported that SpaceX and Northrop Grumman are working together to build the classified satellite network for the NRO. 

The spy agency, whose operations are highly classified, is expanding its space architecture so it can collect more data for the Pentagon and intelligence community. The NRO has previously said it plans to quadruple the number of satellites it has in orbit. 

“Over the next decade, we will continue to increase the number of satellites operating across

multiple orbits—complementing the NRO’s cutting-edge, highly-capable satellites that are the

traditional hallmark of the NRO—by adding responsive, proliferated systems,” Troy Meink, principal deputy director of the NRO, said in a statement. “Our proliferated systems will increase timeliness of access, diversify communications pathways, and enhance our resilience.”

The NRO is planning about half a dozen launches for the new architecture this year, with additional launches expected through 2028, according to the agency.