What is the GAO's main concern about the Pentagon's missile tracking overhaul?

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is concerned that the Space Development Agency (SDA) is moving too fast with its $35 billion missile tracking satellite plan, exceeding the readiness of its technology and management.

What risks does the GAO report highlight for the Space Development Agency (SDA)?

The GAO report highlights risks such as overestimating technology readiness, potential delays in delivering capabilities, and the possibility that the satellite systems may not meet warfighter requirements.

What recommendations did the GAO make regarding the missile tracking program?

The GAO recommended that the SDA conduct more rigorous assessments of technology readiness, develop an architecture-level schedule, and improve collaboration with warfighters.

Home / Technology / Pentagon Missile Tracking Overhaul Risky

Pentagon Missile Tracking Overhaul Risky

29 Jan

•

Summary

Space Development Agency's $35B plan faces risks.
GAO cites overestimation of technology readiness.
Satellite needs may not meet warfighter requirements.

Pentagon Missile Tracking Overhaul Risky

A recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlights significant risks in the Pentagon's ambitious $35 billion plan to modernize missile warning and tracking systems from space. The Space Development Agency (SDA) is moving forward with deploying a large constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit, intended to counter advanced threats like hypersonic missiles. However, GAO found that the program's pace exceeds the maturity of its underlying technology and management practices.

GAO's assessment indicates that SDA is overestimating the readiness of critical technologies for both its spacecraft and ground systems. This accelerated procurement, particularly for the Tracking Layer using infrared sensors, risks developing capabilities that may not meet the operational needs of combatant commands. The watchdog also noted a lack of a comprehensive, architecture-level schedule to manage potential delays across successive satellite tranches.

Furthermore, the Department of Defense lacks a reliable estimate for the total lifetime cost of this missile warning and tracking architecture. Concerns were also raised regarding SDA's collaboration with warfighters, who report limited insight into how requirements are established and capabilities are prioritized. GAO recommended more rigorous technology assessments, improved scheduling, and better warfighter engagement.