Space Technology Development and Prototyping

The Space Technology Development and Prototyping program is managed by the Space Development Agency (SDA) under the Air Force's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation, Space Force appropriation. Its primary objective is to develop and demonstrate the next generation Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). This architecture is designed to enable U.S. military operations to respond rapidly to emerging multi-domain threats, with a focus on deploying lower-cost, mass-produced space vehicles and routine space access. The program supports technological breakthroughs, mission-focused maturation, lean engineering, and warfighter-centric capability development, while also expanding the industrial base and streamlining acquisition processes.

Integration and Battle Management aims to deliver space-based command and control, tasking, mission processing, and dissemination capabilities to joint warfighting forces. This line item funds the integration of resilient ground support infrastructure and the development of the Battle Management Command, Control, and Communications (BMC3) Layer. Objectives include conducting trade studies, technical analyses, risk reduction demonstrations, and prototyping hardware and software systems. The program completes modifications and installations at ground sites, maintains operations centers, and supports training for operators. It also focuses on expanding modeling, simulation, and digital engineering tools to support future architecture growth.

Transport is focused on developing and deploying a resilient, unified military data transport layer in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). This line item supports assembly, integration, and testing of Transport space vehicles and payloads, launch preparations, and on-orbit operations for Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 satellites. The program enables low-latency tactical communication, alternate position, navigation, and timing (APNT) capabilities, and secure multi-domain optical communications. It also funds technology maturation, interoperability studies, and the development of standards for rapid prototyping and fielding of new satellite capabilities. Classified activities under this project are also included, with details available at higher classification levels.

Sensing is dedicated to developing and demonstrating advanced payload prototypes compatible with the proliferated LEO architecture. The main goals are to enhance missile tracking, global surveillance, and space domain awareness. The program funds the development of sensors for beyond-line-of-sight targeting, space-to-space and space-to-tactical data links, and advanced missile warning. It leverages operating Tranche 0 satellites for developmental investigations and characterizes high-resolution background clutter across spectral bands. The Sensing line also includes a joint effort with the Office of the Secretary of Defense and Army Futures Command to demonstrate space-based telemetry monitoring for flight testing.

Each line item within the Space Technology Development and Prototyping program is structured to deliver capabilities in bi-annual tranches, beginning in FY 2022. The program emphasizes rapid spiral development, risk reduction, and continuous integration of lessons learned to inform future tranches. Ground infrastructure development is closely linked to payload integration and data processing, ensuring operational readiness and scalability for future launches. The program also supports the sustainment of earlier tranches while finalizing capabilities for upcoming launches.

The acquisition strategy for all activities under this program involves a broad partnership network, including the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), Space Systems Command (SSC), Space Operations Command (SpOC), Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM), Space Rapid Capabilities Office (SpRCO), DoD Combatant Commands, research centers, small businesses, large defense contractors, commercial space providers, non-traditional aerospace and defense contractors, Federally Funded Research and Development Centers, and University Affiliated Research Centers. This collaborative approach is intended to accelerate technology development, leverage commercial innovation, and ensure interoperability across the space enterprise.

Budget adjustments in recent years reflect congressional reductions, reprogramming for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR), and prioritization of other United States Space Force (USSF) needs. The FY 2026 request supports the sustainment of Tranche 1 capabilities and the development and launch of Tranche 2 assets, with a continued focus on efficiency and alignment with government-wide cost-saving initiatives.