# Space Development Agency Advances TRKT3 Satellite Design

L3Harris Technologies has completed the preliminary design review for the Space Development Agency's Tracking Layer Tranche 3 (TRKT3) missile tracking satellite program under an $843 million contract awarded in December 2025. This milestone confirms the baseline designs for critical system components of 18 advanced infrared sensing satellites intended to enhance real-time missile threat detection as part of the SDA's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. Launches are planned by fiscal year 2029, marking a significant step in modernizing missile tracking capabilities in space.

- **Why this matters:** The completion of the preliminary design review signals progress toward deployment of next-generation missile tracking satellites, offering opportunities for contractors involved in space systems, infrared sensing, and missile defense technologies.
- Procurement professionals should note the substantial contract value and multi-year timeline, indicating ongoing requirements for satellite manufacturing, testing, and launch services.
- Companies specializing in advanced sensor technologies and space vehicle integration may find strategic entry points as the program advances toward production and deployment phases.
- The SDA's focus on proliferated architectures suggests a shift toward distributed space capabilities, impacting future procurement strategies and competitive landscapes in defense space systems.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 28, 2026

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

### Vendors
- L3Harris Technologies (prime contractor)

### Sources
- [L3Harris Finishes Missile Tracking Satellite Design Review](https://www.executivebiz.com/articles/l3harris-sda-tranche-3-tracking-layer-preliminary-design-review) - ExecutiveBiz