US enhances intelligence reach with launch of 100 spy satellites

The U.S. National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) is set to launch a constellation of 100 reconnaissance satellites into orbit by the end of this year, according to NRO director Christopher Scolese.

“From June last year to December this year, we expect to launch 100 satellites. We are transitioning from the demonstration phase to operational use, where we can begin extensive testing,” Scolese announced speaking at a Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) event, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Many of these satellites will be part of a new network designed to gather intelligence for the Pentagon and the intelligence community. The first operational satellites in this constellation were launched in May, with two additional batches following. Although test vehicles were deployed last year, this year marks the start of real-time operational missions.

With an increased number of intelligence-gathering satellites, the U.S. will maintain constant surveillance over specific areas on Earth. “Now you can’t hide because you’re always being monitored,” Scolese emphasized.

NRO officials have stated their goal is to quadruple the number of spacecraft in orbit, which, when combined with advanced satellite technologies, could result in a tenfold increase in intelligence-gathering capabilities. The deployment of smaller, more numerous satellites will allow for more frequent monitoring of key locations, facilitating faster access to critical information.

The NRO plans to continue launching new satellites into various orbits for this constellation until 2028, aiming to expand its fleet significantly over the next decade.

By Tamilla Hasanova