# L3Harris Begins AMDT3 Satellite Production

L3Harris Technologies has initiated production of 18 Accelerated Missile Defense Tranche 3 (AMDT3) satellites under a **$955 million** fixed-price Other Transaction Authority rapid prototyping contract awarded by the Space Development Agency (SDA) in July 2026. Deliveries are scheduled for completion by late 2028 or early 2029, supporting the Golden Dome missile defense program. This contract follows significant investments in production and supply chain capabilities, highlighting an accelerated timeline for missile warning and tracking sensor satellite deployment.

- The SDA contract emphasizes rapid prototyping and delivery, signaling increased demand for satellite payload integration, spacecraft bus components, and tier two and three supplier participation.
- Procurement professionals should note the parallel **$798 million** contract awarded to Sierra Space for a similar satellite variant, indicating multiple prime contractors engaged in the Golden Dome program.
- Facilities in Indiana and Florida are key integration sites, suggesting geographic hubs for subcontracting and supply chain opportunities.
- Contractors specializing in missile defense sensor technologies and spacecraft manufacturing can leverage this accelerated production schedule to align capabilities and capacity with SDA requirements.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 17, 2026

### Government Entities
- Space Development Agency (SDA)

### Vendors
- L3Harris Technologies (prime contractor)
- Sierra Space (contract awardee)
- Intuitive Machines (spacecraft bus supplier)

### Sources
- [L3Harris Starts Production On Tranche 3 Satellites, Expects All Deliveries By Early 2029 - Defense Daily](https://www.defensedaily.com/l3harris-starts-production-on-tranche-3-satellites-expects-all-deliveries-by-early-2029/missile-defense) - Defense Daily