Software startup Anduril is solidifying its strategy to enter the military space market by securing a new contract with the Space Force and establishing a strategic partnership to enhance its satellite capabilities.
On September 27, the Space Force awarded Anduril a $25.3 million contract aimed at expanding the use of its artificial intelligence-powered Lattice software. This software facilitates mesh network communications and will be implemented at more sites within the Space Surveillance Network (SSN), which consists of globally dispersed telescopes and radar systems. The contract extends through March 2026 and follows two earlier Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards in 2022 and 2023, both focused on enhancing the resilience of network communications to assist US Space Command in monitoring space.
The Lattice software is designed to integrate new sensors into the SSN, enabling both government and private-sector assets to contribute to the network’s capabilities.
In a further push to consolidate its position in the military space sector, Anduril announced a partnership with Los Angeles-based Apex Space, which specializes in mass-producing custom satellite buses in standardized sizes. This collaboration will enable Anduril to rapidly deploy capabilities for various missions, including space situational awareness and missile warning and tracking, leveraging Apex’s off-the-shelf manufacturing approach.
According to Anduril’s press release, “As part of this agreement, Anduril will utilize its capabilities as a mission systems integrator to field operational systems by bringing together technology across the industrial base.” The company plans to integrate its technology with Apex’s satellite buses, contributing products in on-orbit edge processing, versatile payloads, ground command and control systems, and autonomous operations support—key elements for ready-to-deploy satellite constellations.
Anduril’s Senior Vice President of Space and Engineering, Gokul Subramanian, stated that the company aims to launch its first space monitoring satellites by the end of 2025, signaling its strong interest in penetrating the Space Force’s market effectively.
