US Space Force awards $3.2 billion in other transaction authority contracts to 12 companies for Golden Dome space-based interceptor prototypes

US Space Force/Golden Dome Space-Based Interceptor Constellation

The US Space Force awarded up to $3.2 billion in other transaction authority (OTA) agreements to SpaceX, Anduril, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, True Anomaly, and eight other companies to develop space-based interceptor prototypes for the Golden Dome ballistic missile defense architecture. Demonstrations are planned for 2028, with the full architecture estimated at $185 billion and targeted for operational capability by 2035.

• The Space Force selected 12 contractors including SpaceX, Anduril, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, Booz Allen Hamilton, Raytheon, GITAI USA, True Anomaly, Turion Space, Quindar, and Sci-Tec.
• OTA contracting is a fast-track procurement method designed to reduce red tape and increase competition compared to traditional defense contracts.
• The space-based interceptors are kinetic kill vehicles that will operate in a constellation in proliferated low-Earth orbit, capable of engaging missiles during boost, midcourse, and glide phases.
• Golden Dome is part of the broader integrated air and missile defense strategy, incorporating ground radars, command centers, and existing Homeland Defense systems.