Space Force Awards Lockheed Martin Contract for Space-Based Interceptor Program
Defense Firm Targets 2028 Integrated Demonstration as Part of Golden Dome Initiative
The U.S. Space Force has selected Lockheed Martin to develop capabilities for its Space-Based Interceptor (SBI) program, part of the broader Golden Dome for America missile defense architecture. The award, announced May 1, 2026, marks another step toward fielding a proliferated constellation of on-orbit interceptors capable of neutralizing advanced missile threats.
“Lockheed Martin is already making next generation integrated air and missile defense a reality with our proven capabilities and the expertise across our entire network.”
Robert Lightfoot, Lockheed Martin Space
Space Systems Command (SSC) awarded the contracts — structured as Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreements — to accelerate development, testing and integration of SBI capabilities. The specific contract value for Lockheed Martin’s award was not disclosed, though SSC has collectively awarded 20 contracts worth up to $3.2 billion to 12 companies since late 2025 as part of the SBI program.
The SBI program is designed to field a proliferated low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation of interceptors capable of engaging missiles during boost, midcourse and glide phases of flight — addressing hypersonic weapons and other advanced aerial threats that can maneuver at high speeds en route to their targets.
“Lockheed Martin is already making next generation integrated air and missile defense a reality with our proven capabilities and the expertise across our entire network,” said Robert Lightfoot, president of Lockheed Martin Space. “We’re investing in technology and infrastructure, while bringing together the strength of the full industrial base, to deliver advanced capabilities like SBI faster and are committed to delivering an integrated demonstration by 2028.”
Lockheed Martin said the SBI system builds on the company’s experience with combat-proven platforms including the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, the PAC-3 missile interceptor, the Next Generation Interceptor, and hypersonic strike systems. The company also cited its work on missile warning and tracking systems as foundational to the SBI effort.
The Golden Dome for America initiative was established by executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Jan. 27, 2025, which identified the threat of attack by ballistic, hypersonic and cruise missiles as “the most catastrophic threat facing the United States.” The Space Force’s SBI program was subsequently established under the direction of the Deputy Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Golden Dome Direct Reporting Program Manager.
Space Force Program Executive Officer for Space Combat Power Col. Bryon McClain emphasized the urgency of the program’s timeline. “Adversary capabilities are advancing rapidly, and our acquisition strategies must move even faster to counter the growing speed and maneuverability of modern missile threats,” he said. “Utilizing Other Transaction Authority agreements, we attracted both traditional and nontraditional vendors, while harnessing American innovation, and ensuring continuous competition. With the commitment and collaboration of these industry partners, the Space Force will demonstrate an initial capability in 2028.”
The use of OTA agreements reflects the program’s aggressive schedule, allowing SSC to move faster than traditional federal acquisition regulations and attract a broader pool of vendors while maintaining competitive pressure throughout development.
In addition to Lockheed Martin, SSC confirmed that 11 other companies received SBI contracts, including Northrop Grumman, SpaceX and Anduril Industries. SSC said the multi-vendor strategy is designed to ensure the government retains flexibility to award follow-on work to the best performers.
The SBI constellation is envisioned as a key early-intercept layer within the broader Golden Dome multi-domain architecture, complementing existing ground- and sea-based missile defense assets in the U.S. inventory.