The U.S. Space Force has awarded its first prototype contracts for space-based interceptors (SBI), designed to destroy missiles within minutes of launch under the Pentagon’s Golden Dome initiative.
The service declined to identify which companies won the awards, saying they are protected under “enhanced security measures.” It also did not disclose the contract values, noting that because the contracts fall under Other Transaction Agreements (OTA), the Space Force is not required to provide those details.
At least two defense companies, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, have publicly pledged to compete for the boost-phase SBI effort, along with startup spacecraft manufacturer Apex.
“The selection process was robust and thorough,” Space Force said in the statement, adding that it is looking to “lead a fast-paced effort in partnership with industry to develop, demonstrate and deliver prototype interceptors.”
A separate prototype competition for kinetic midcourse interceptors is set to begin in early December, with awards planned for February, according to Air and Space Forces.
President Donald Trump announced the Golden Dome initiative during the first week of his second term. He said the project would cost $175 billion and take three years to begin initial operations.
Trump said that once fully constructed, the Golden Dome would be capable of intercepting missiles, “even if they are launched from other sides of the world and even if they are launched from space.”
