Our Contribution
Realizing Missile Defense from Space
In 2025, the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command selected APL to serve as technical direction agent (TDA) for the Space Force’s Space-Based Interceptor (SBI) program, in support of Golden Dome for America, an ambitious initiative to explore missile intercept capabilities from orbit that is reshaping the nation’s approach to homeland defense and deterrence against advanced aerial threats. As TDA, APL serves as an independent, conflict-free advisor to ensure system-architecture consistency across industry partners. The SBI program is structured around a prize-based acquisition model—a coordinated approach in which commercial companies invest early and compete for additional funding at designated development milestones. APL will help define and manage the technical interface documents that link the system’s segments, ranging from fire-control and ground elements to the constellation of interceptors in space, and ensure a synergistic interface between program participants so that the government can make informed, data-driven decisions.
