The milestone was achieved by Space Systems Command’s System Delta 84 in partnership with BAE Space & Mission Systems. The program will ultimately deploy a constellation of ten satellites in Medium Earth Orbit to strengthen space-based missile warning and tracking capabilities.
Officials said the new constellation will expand and reinforce the capabilities established under the earlier Epoch 1 system. The additional satellites are intended to provide broader and more resilient global coverage against emerging missile threats.
“In today’s world, speed and innovation are essential to our national defense,” said Lt. Col. Brandon Castillo, SYD 84 Epoch 2 system program manager. “Our team is delivering to outpace the threat. This expanded constellation will provide the global coverage needed to protect our Nation, service members, Allies, and partners from the most advanced missiles.”
The preliminary design review milestone was reached only nine months after the program contract was awarded in May 2025. Officials say the pace reflects the program’s emphasis on rapid acquisition and accelerated development.
According to the Space Force, the progress has been enabled by modern engineering and acquisition approaches. The program integrates digital engineering tools with established technologies to shorten development timelines while maintaining system reliability.
“This milestone was achieved by a talented and dedicated team working in close collaboration,” said 1st Lt. Sabrina Taylor, SYD 84 Epoch 2 chief systems engineer. “Using advanced digital tools allowed us to ensure the design is sound and ready for the next phase, which is the Critical Design Review planned for this summer. Collectively, we are demonstrating we can move quickly while maintaining technical excellence.”
Following the preliminary design review, the program will move toward the next major development phase. A Critical Design Review for the constellation is scheduled for later this summer.
Space Systems Command, the acquisition arm of the U.S. Space Force, oversees the effort as part of its broader mission to deliver resilient space capabilities. The command manages a $15.6 billion annual space acquisition budget for the Department of Defense and works closely with industry partners, government agencies, allied nations, and academic institutions.
