Rocket Lab completes key milestone in satellite development for U.S. Space Development Agency

By Defence Industry Europe

Rocket Lab National Security LLC has announced the successful completion of the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) for its Tranche 2 Transport Layer-Beta (T2TL-Beta) programme. This milestone is a critical step in the company’s role as the prime contractor for delivering 18 data transport satellites for the U.S. Department of Defense's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA).

 

The PDR evaluates the satellite design to ensure it meets technical and operational requirements. The multi-day review covered mission architecture, satellite systems, ground operations, integration plans, and testing procedures, confirming readiness to proceed with the detailed design phase.

The T2TL-Beta contract, awarded to Rocket Lab in early 2024, is valued at $515 million. Under this agreement, the company is responsible for the design, integration, testing, and commissioning of the satellites. The PWSA is a low-Earth orbit satellite constellation aimed at providing secure communications and missile tracking capabilities.

 

 

Rocket Lab’s approach involves using its vertically integrated subsystems and components, including solar panels, avionics, star trackers, and flight software. This integration is designed to improve cost control, scheduling, and quality assurance during production.

The company stated that completing the PDR represents a significant step toward delivering the satellites on schedule. This achievement reinforces Rocket Lab’s position as a provider of advanced space systems for national security purposes.

 

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