# Space Force Awards GHOST-R Reconnaissance Contracts

The U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command (SSC) and the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) awarded prototype contracts on September 18, 2026, to Northrop Grumman and True Anomaly for the GHOST-R program. This initiative aims to develop low-cost, rapid-prototype reconnaissance satellites leveraging commercial space technologies to enhance space situational awareness and tactical reconnaissance capabilities in geosynchronous orbit. The prototypes are scheduled for launch in 2028, supporting the broader RG-XX constellation planned for operational deployment by 2029. This effort focuses on delivering high-resolution space-to-space imagery, battle-damage assessment, and positive identification to protect U.S. and allied space assets.

- **Key agencies involved:** U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC) and Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) are jointly managing the GHOST-R program under the RG-XX initiative.
- **Contractors awarded:** Northrop Grumman and True Anomaly received prototype contracts to develop commercial technology-based reconnaissance satellites, with subcontracting roles including TRL 11 for optical payloads.
- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the emphasis on rapid prototyping and commercial technology integration to reduce costs and accelerate deployment timelines in space reconnaissance.
- **Actionable insights:** Companies specializing in space systems, commercial satellite buses, and advanced electro-optical payloads may find emerging opportunities in follow-on contracts as the RG-XX constellation progresses toward full operational capability by 2029.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Contracting Vehicles, Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 22, 2026

### Government Entities
- Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)
- U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC)
- U.S. Space Force (USSF)
- U.S. Space Command (SPACECOM)
- Department of Defense (DoD)

### Vendors
- Northrop Grumman (awardee)
- True Anomaly (awardee)
- TRL 11 (Optical payload provider for Northrop Grumman)

### Key Quotes
> We are leveraging rapid prototyping to push the envelope of what commercial tech can deliver to the RG-XX program. This approach burns down technical risk, drives down lifecycle costs, and gets vital capability to the warfighter faster to ensure a more resilient architecture.
> — Col. Bryon McClain, Acting Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Space Combat Power

> Jackal and Mosaic were purpose-built for this mission, delivering superior maneuverability, sensing, and autonomy at a price point that enables scale without compromising performance.
> — Even Rogers, CEO of True Anomaly

### Sources
- [Pentagon Picks 2 Companies for Reconnaissance Satellite Demo](https://www.airandspaceforces.com/pentagon-picks-2-companies-for-reconnaissance-satellite-demo) - Air & Space Forces Magazine
- [DIU and SSC Announce Joint GHOST-R Mission](https://payloadspace.com/diu-and-ssc-announce-joint-ghost-r-mission) - Payload Space
- [Pentagon taps Northrop Grumman, True Anomaly for recon satellites that can monitor other space systems | DefenseScoop](https://defensescoop.com/2026/09/21/ghostr-satellite-program-contract-awards-northrop-grumman-true-anomaly) - DefenseScoop