SDA resumes data relay satellite launch following tech fixes

The Space Development Agency is resuming launches of its Tranche 1 Transport Layer satellites after fixing thermal and propulsion issues discovered in the initial 42-satellite batch launched in 2025. SDA plans seven more launches across three contractors (York Space Systems, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin) to complete a 158-satellite constellation for military data relay and missile tracking. If you make thermal management, electric propulsion, or optical intersatellite links, SDA just proved those components have a buyer at scale - and the customer has budget, timeline pressure, and launches booked. The real constraint now is not funding but production cadence: whoever can ship thermal solutions and laser links at volume controls the next tranche.