Starting in 2022, SpaceX will launch several satellites for the Pentagon space agency, known as the Space Development Agency.
SpaceX just got the contract for the launches, valued at around $ 150.4 million.
The satellites launched into space have a number of different use cases and sizes. Specifically, 20 of the satellites will be data relay satellites used for military and defense communications. The other 8 will be used as early warning alert satellites. As for where the shows will launch, they have a slate to build away from the Vandenberg Air Force Base, California.
The news of SpaceX winning the bid comes on the heels of Space Development Group calling for the applications just months ago, on October 6, 2020.
According to the tender request documents, and like most government contracts selection, the supplier was selected based on the best value for money. This does not always mean that the contract goes to the cheapest bidder, but that criteria such as timing, mission success rate, and other performance characteristics are taken into account.
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SpaceX currently has around 20 launches for 2021, and this new deal indicates that the company will grow significantly in the coming years.