# US Space Force orbital reconnaissance development

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-space-force-orbital-reconnaissance-development
> Updated: 2026-09-19T00:04:25.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

The US Space Force has initiated programs to enhance orbital surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, with Northrop Grumman serving as a key contractor.

Initially, Northrop Grumman was selected for the Resilient Radar System-Ground (RRS-G) program. This initiative aims to transition from aerial tracking to space-based reconnaissance using a satellite constellation designed to detect and track ground-moving targets from orbit, with an operational target of 2028. 

Following this, the Space Force awarded a contract to Northrop Grumman to develop the GHOST-R, a prototype reconnaissance satellite for geosynchronous orbit. Utilizing the modular ESPASat-L spacecraft platform and optical payloads from TRL-11, the GHOST-R project seeks to increase situational awareness in contested orbital belts through an accelerated 24-month production and testing timeline.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-19: Northrop Grumman to develop U.S. Space Force spy satellite prototype

Northrop Grumman will develop the GHOST-R prototype spy satellite for the U.S. Space Force, aiming to enhance geosynchronous orbit surveillance within a 24-month timeframe.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/northrop-grumman-to-develop-us-space-force-spy-satellite-prototype

### 2026-09-16: Northrop Grumman selected for US Space Force RRS-G radar program

The US Space Force has named Northrop Grumman as the prime for its new RRS-G satellite program, while the company continues deliveries of G/ATOR radar systems to US military branches.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/northrop-grumman-selected-for-us-space-force-rrs-g-radar-program

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Cite as: US Space Force orbital reconnaissance development. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-space-force-orbital-reconnaissance-development