The National Reconnaissance Office launched on Oct. 24 the fourth mission for its proliferated satellite architecture. The mission, dubbed NROL-167, involved the use of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, which took off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, the NRO said Thursday.
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Proliferated Satellite Architecture Program
NRO Director Chris Scolese said in May that the proliferated satellite architecture would “enhance our ability to collect and deliver critical information at the speed our users demand.” The four-time Wash100 awardee also said the architecture is characterized by a diversity that “allows us to remain agile and resilient amid increasing competition and emerging threats, ensuring we are well positioned now and in the future to deliver on our mission of keeping our nation safe.”
Increased NROL Launch Frequency
NROL-167, which was launched in partnership with U.S. Space Force Space Launch Delta 30 and SpaceX, comes on the heels of NROL-113 — the third mission in the series — which launched just this September. According to the NRO, the short gap between the two signifies an increased launch frequency for the program.
Over half a dozen launches are set for 2024 in support of the proliferated architecture program, while more launches are expected through 2028.