Military Watch Defense & Armed Forces

Golden Dome and space-based missile defense developments

Golden Dome and space-based missile defense developments

Key Questions

What progress has been made on the Golden Dome space-based interceptor program?

Northrop Grumman partnered with Apex for a 2027 orbital test of space-based interceptors after completing ground tests. The system aims to counter hypersonic and ballistic threats from orbit.

How is L3Harris expanding production for missile defense components?

L3Harris is investing $25 million to expand solid rocket motor production in Huntsville. This supports increased demand for missile warning and defense systems.

What contracts have been awarded for US Space Force missile warning?

SpaceX received a $4.16 billion SB-AMTI contract for airborne threat tracking. MDA Space was also selected by BAE Systems for the missile warning constellation.

What delays affect the Glide Phase Interceptor program?

Northrop Grumman's ship-launched Glide Phase Interceptor has been delayed to 2031. This creates a gap in defenses against Chinese and Russian hypersonic glide vehicles.

What is the timeline for MDA's Project Maverick hypersonic defense test?

Project Maverick remains on track for a fiscal 2027 flight test. It is designed to track and intercept hypersonic missiles as part of evolving space and missile defense architecture.

Northrop Grumman partners with Apex for 2027 orbital test of Golden Dome space-based interceptors; ground tests completed. L3Harris expands solid rocket motor production in Huntsville with $25M investment. Space Force awards $4.16B SB-AMTI contract to SpaceX for airborne threat tracking. MDA Space selected by BAE Systems for U.S. Space Force missile warning constellation, adding to the architecture. New: Northrop Grumman's Glide Phase Interceptor (ship-launched anti-hypersonic) delayed to 2031, creating a capability gap against Chinese and Russian glide vehicles. New: MDA's Project Maverick on track for FY2027 flight test of a defensive system designed to track and intercept hypersonic missiles.

Sources (5)
Updated Jun 5, 2026