SpaceNews.com
• Sandra Erwin
Alphabet’s Google is discussing a US Defense Department role in a data-security effort for Golden Dome, the proposed missile-defense program valued at $185 billion, according to people familiar with the matter. The talks point to a potential contribution from a major technology company, but no agreement or specific scope of work is reported.
Space Defense & Militarization
Latest source-backed stories
Alphabet’s Google is discussing a US Defense Department role in a data-security effort for Golden Dome, the proposed missile-defense program valued at $185 billion, according to people familiar with the matter. The talks point to a potential contribution from a major technology company, but no agreement or specific scope of work is reported.
The US Air Force has tested new autonomous mission systems on its XQ-67A demonstrator, while China says its GJ-21 unmanned combat aircraft completed takeoff and landing tests aboard the Type 076 amphibious assault ship Sichuan. Separately, TEKEVER won a USSOCOM order for AI-enabled ISR drones, and Saab and GA-ASI tested an unmanned airborne early warning capability on the MQ-9B.
MDA Space will build AURORA broadband digital phased-array antennas and controllers for the first 66 satellites in Europe’s IRIS² secure-connectivity constellation. The agreement with Thales Alenia Space is valued at more than €100 million, with the satellites scheduled to launch in 2029.
High activity
Chinese state media says the GJ-21 stealth attack drone has completed its first takeoff and landing aboard the amphibious assault ship Sichuan, calling it a breakthrough in the ship program. The reported milestone follows more than a year of signs that China was preparing to demonstrate ship-based operations for the aircraft.
A sudden restriction on Ukraine’s access to Starshield exposed a strategic vulnerability: critical battlefield connectivity depends on infrastructure whose access can be controlled by a private provider. The episode also raises questions about the consequences of using that control during an active conflict.
The midterm elections could shape the policy and funding environment for military space, with consequences for programs and priorities across the sector. The available article summary does not specify the contests, proposals or potential budget changes at issue.
The agreement gives HEO access to Satellogic spacecraft for imaging objects in space and runs through 2029. Satellogic said the deal carries a minimum annual commitment in the seven figures, extending and expanding the companies’ work in non-Earth imaging and space domain awareness.
European Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis announced that the EU’s first hubs for unmanned and counter-unmanned aircraft technology will be located in Latvia and the Netherlands. The announcement came at a NATO event, as European institutions and allies focus on developing drone capabilities and countermeasures.
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