# Space Force awards SpaceX $2.29 billion to “accelerate” fielding of a “backbone’ data transport constellation.

*aerospace · news · 2026-05-26 · Breaking Defense*

## Key points

- Space Force awarded SpaceX $2.29 billion to accelerate the SDN Backbone satellite constellation.
- SpaceX is required to deliver a fully operational prototype for SDN Backbone by end of 2027.
- The SDN Backbone will use SpaceX's militarized Starshield variant of the Starlink constellation.
- This contract award is significantly larger than previous MILNET-related budget allocations for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.

**Companies:** SpaceX
**Countries:** United States

[Read the full story on Breaking Defense](https://breakingdefense.com/2026/05/spacex-wins-2-29b-to-speed-space-forces-leo-communications-backbone/)

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