Space Intel Report
• Peter B. de Selding
South Korea’s Kompsat-6 radar-observation satellite has become an example of the risks of launching as a co-passenger rather than buying a dedicated mission. The case highlights the tradeoff satellite operators face between the lower cost of a shared ride and the greater control of a dedicated launch.
Satellite
Latest source-backed stories
The U.S. Space Force plans to award Boeing a contract worth up to $945.9 million to maintain and modernize military communications satellites and ground systems. The service cites Boeing’s ownership of proprietary technical data and software required for the work.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow is coordinating on low-Earth-orbit satellite networks with Elon Musk and other U.S. partners, while acknowledging Russia is only beginning to develop its own Starlink-like system. The effort is intended to provide satellite communications for Russian forces operating against Ukraine, despite tensions between Moscow and Washington.
South Korea’s Kompsat-6 radar-observation satellite has become an example of the risks of launching as a co-passenger rather than buying a dedicated mission. The case highlights the tradeoff satellite operators face between the lower cost of a shared ride and the greater control of a dedicated launch.
South Korea’s Flexell Space and Singapore-based Satoro have agreed to demonstrate and validate next-generation space solar cells in orbit, with missions planned aboard SpaceX Falcon 9 launches in 2027 and 2028. Flexell will supply solar cells and test modules; Satoro will provide a satellite-as-a-service solution.
Rendezvous Robotics has raised $20 million to develop technology for satellites launched in separate pieces that can assemble themselves in space. The effort targets a different approach to spacecraft deployment, with the company developing the technology needed to make on-orbit assembly possible.
High activity
A newly released U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency image appears to show China’s reusable Shenlong spaceplane docked to another vehicle in orbit. The craft has flown four missions, according to one report; the image adds public evidence of its on-orbit activity, while its capabilities and mission details remain opaque.
ABS Jets has joined Starlink’s authorized dealer network and completed its first installation, equipping an Embraer Legacy 650 with the satellite connectivity service. The announcement marks the business aviation provider’s entry into Starlink installations; the available report does not specify the system’s performance, pricing or rollout plans.
The U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency says counterspace weapons, strategic cooperation and growing reliance on commercial satellites are increasing threats to space security. The assessment highlights how military capabilities and commercial infrastructure are becoming central to the security risks facing the orbital environment.
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