SpaceX Is Building a Spy Satellite Network for US, Reuters Says

Elon Musk’s SpaceX is building a network of hundreds of spy satellites under a classified contract with a US intelligence agency, Reuters reported, citing five people familiar with the program.

SpaceX’s Starshield business unit is building the network as part of a $1.8 billion contract signed in 2021 with the National Reconnaissance Office, Reuters said. The new spy system comprises of hundreds of satellites bearing Earth-imaging capabilities that can operate as a swarm in low orbits, according to the news agency.

The contract signals a strengthening relationship between the billionaire’s space company and the US government’s national security agencies, Reuters said.