SpaceX launches next-gen spy satellites for US government

On September 5, the US Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched a constellation of satellites into orbit on behalf of the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO).

SpaceX, the developer of the Falcon 9, confirmed the mission, known as NROL-113, which involved deploying optoelectronic reconnaissance satellites, Caliber.Az reports referring to foreign media sources.

The rocket lifted off from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 8:20 PM local time. While specific details about the satellites' functions and the exact number remain classified, US experts estimate that 21 satellites were successfully placed into orbit.

This launch follows similar missions earlier in the year: 21 satellites were also deployed in May under the NROL-146 mission and in June as part of the NROL-186 mission. The NRO has previously stated its goal to significantly expand its satellite fleet, aiming to quadruple the number of spacecraft in orbit. This increase, combined with advanced technologies onboard, is expected to enhance intelligence-gathering capabilities by tenfold. The new, more numerous and compact satellites are designed to enable more frequent and rapid monitoring of critical areas.

The satellites were developed under a $1.8 billion contract awarded in 2021 to SpaceX and Northrop Grumman, reflecting the continued investment in cutting-edge space technology for national security purposes