The company said the work supports the nation’s initiative to demonstrate scalable space-based interceptor technologies by the end of the decade. Northrop Grumman said it will use its missile defense expertise, artificial intelligence capabilities and manufacturing capacity to advance the project.
Apex will collaborate with Northrop Grumman as part of the service’s competition to demonstrate space-based missile defense. The wider goal is to field a network of space-based interceptors to protect the homeland soon after the demonstration phase.
Northrop Grumman said it is building on experience with first-of-a-kind missile defense systems. The company said it will draw on an agile workforce and industry partners, including Apex, to support a new layer of homeland defense.
The company also said it is bringing decades of investment in missile defense technology, manufacturing capacity and expertise to the effort. It said the program will demonstrate scalable space-based interceptor capabilities while using modern artificial intelligence.
“We’re combining our advanced missile defense technologies and commercial partnerships to demonstrate next generation space-based interceptor capabilities in support of our nation’s Golden Dome priorities. We have already completed key ground tests this year and are uniquely positioned with Apex to rapidly accelerate and scale affordable production to defend the homeland,” said Ryan Tintner, vice president and general manager, space superiority systems division, Northrop Grumman.
“Apex was founded specifically to support proliferated constellations like Golden Dome, which will require satellites to create a decisive defensive advantage for our nation. This partnership will enable operational, constellation-scale space-based missile defense and allow us to rapidly support an urgent need,” said Ian Cinnamon, chief executive officer and co-founder, Apex.
Space-based interceptors are intended to form part of a layered missile defense system designed to defeat missiles in flight. Northrop Grumman said the systems being developed would be capable of intercepting threats.
The company said it will fund the demonstration of space-based interceptor systems for the U.S. government’s prize competition. The effort builds on Northrop Grumman’s $1 billion company-led investment in missile defense technology.
Northrop Grumman said it has already completed successful ground-test demonstrations this year. The company said it remains on track to deliver on-orbit capability in 2027.
