Overview
- The Space Force issued a second SB‑AMTI task order worth $615 million to three companies, a move disclosed in early August to expand the program’s supplier base.
- Rocket Lab publicly said its share is $397 million to build, launch and operate multiple next‑generation 'Flatellite' satellites and that the spacecraft are planned to fly on its Neutron rocket.
- The SB‑AMTI effort is meant to detect and track fast airborne targets from low Earth orbit, including fighters, bombers, cruise missiles and potential hypersonic threats.
- Officials and press reports say specific dollar splits beyond Rocket Lab, the identity of the third contractor and technical details were withheld for operational security and the awards used fast procurement authorities.
- Neutron remains under development with industry reporting target launches from Wallops later in 2026, and the task order is intended to mature alternate sensors, preserve competition and reduce reliance on manned surveillance in contested airspace.