The Space Force awarded SpaceX $2.29 billion for what the service is calling the Space Data Network Backbone, according to an announcement today.

With the firm-fixed-price Other Transaction Authority agreement delivery order, SpaceX will deliver a proliferated low-Earth orbit constellation of satellites to create the SDN Backbone, according to Space Systems Command. The goal is to provide an integrated network with resilient, high-capacity and low-latency data transport for the joint force.

A fully operational prototype capability for SDN Backbone is expected by the end of 2027.

“The SDN Backbone leverages the best of commercial innovation and delivers a strong foundation for the SDN mission set -- a huge benefit and enabler for our warfighters,” said Col. Ryan Frazier, acting Space Force portfolio acquisition executive for Space-Based Sensing and Targeting. “The SDN Backbone supports the broader SDN, which acts as a core communications layer for the USSF warfighting systems, ensuring our sensors and shooters are connected continuously, globally and securely.

The Space Force created an SDN consortium with partners from industry to develop a unified network architecture and demonstrate advanced communications capability. Through the consortium, the service wants to foster competition and expand the industrial base, according to SSC.

More participants will be added to the consortium this summer, according to the command.

The service is requesting $1.5 billion for SDN for research, development, test and evaluation funding for fiscal year 2027.