Space-Based Interceptor Demo Taps Commercial Satellite Maker Apex
Northrop Grumman Self-Funds Demonstration as On-Orbit Delivery Target Set for 2027
A space-based interceptor demonstration program will use spacecraft built by Apex, Northrop Grumman announced June 1, as the company moves to compete in the U.S. Space Force’s prize competition for homeland missile defense.
“This partnership will enable operational, constellation-scale space-based missile defense and allow us to rapidly support an urgent need.”
Ian Cinnamon, Apex
Northrop Grumman, headquartered in Dulles, Va., is self-funding the demonstration as part of what the Space Force has framed as a competition to develop and field a network of space-based interceptors. The company said it has already completed ground tests this year and is targeting on-orbit delivery in 2027.
The program draws on what Northrop Grumman described as a $1 billion company-led investment in missile-defense technology, money committed before any prize competition award.
Space-based interceptors are designed to defeat missiles in flight as a component of a layered defense system. The partnership adds Apex, a commercial satellite bus manufacturer, to Northrop Grumman’s supply chain for the demonstration.
“We’re combining our advanced missile defense technologies and commercial partnerships to demonstrate next generation space-based interceptor capabilities in support of our nation’s Golden Dome priorities,” said Ryan Tintner, vice president and general manager, space superiority systems division, Northrop Grumman. “We have already completed key ground tests this year and are uniquely positioned with Apex to rapidly accelerate and scale affordable production to defend the homeland.”
“Apex was founded specifically to support proliferated constellations like Golden Dome, which will require satellites to create a decisive defensive advantage for our nation,” said Ian Cinnamon, chief executive officer and co-founder of Apex. “This partnership will enable operational, constellation-scale space-based missile defense and allow us to rapidly support an urgent need.”
Northrop Grumman said it will use artificial intelligence in the demonstration systems. The company did not disclose the number of interceptors planned for the demonstration, the value of any anticipated Space Force prize award, or the terms of its agreement with Apex.
The on-orbit demonstration is scheduled for 2027.