Military forces have a long association with spaceflight, with modern rockets evolving from missiles developed during World War II. Today's armed forces rely on space-based assets for reconnaissance, weather tracking, communication, navigation and more. The U.S. Air Force regularly launches GPS and missile-defense tracking satellites, and operates two classified X-37B robotic space planes. Learn more about military satellites, space weapon, the Space Force and more here.
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Latest about military space
Space Force's mysterious X-37B space plane to attempt new 'aerobraking' maneuvers in orbit
The U.S. military's X-37B space plane is about to begin a series of novel maneuvers, according to a rare official update on the spacecraft.
Trump says he'd create a Space National Guard if elected
Former President Trump said he would create a Space National Guard if elected for a second term this November.
Atlas V rocket launches its final national security mission for US military (video)
United Launch Alliance's venerable Atlas V rocket flew its final national security mission early Tuesday (July 30).
US military project aims to prevent hackers targeting satellites and recognizes rising threat of cyberattacks in space
The US military recently launched a groundbreaking initiative to strengthen ties with the commercial space industry.
Pentagon picks SpaceX, Blue Origin and ULA for $5.6 billion launch deal
SpaceX, Blue Origin and United Launch Alliance will compete for National Security Space Launch contracts worth up to $5.6 billion across fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
Space Force orders 'jetpack' to give 2 years of maneuverability to military satellite
In a first-of-its-kind mission, Starfish Space will attach a "jetpack"-like satellite to a U.S. military satellite to give it two years of additional propulsion and maneuverability.
US Space Force is launching more missions than ever. Lawmakers worry America's spaceports can't keep up
The House Armed Services Committee has raised concerns about whether Space Force's two main coastal ranges can keep up with rising launch demands.
Pentagon wants commercial 'space reserve' to support military satellites in orbit
A plan that would allow the U.S. Space Force to leverage the capabilities of commercial satellites in the event of a national defense emergency has received support from Congress.
