The United States' most ambitious military project in space has a new owner: SpaceX

The U.S. has awarded SpaceX a central role in its military space communications network under a $2.29 billion contract.

The system will likely rely on Starshield satellites to support tactical communications, missile detection and tracking, and links between sensors and response systems.

Other companies will still contribute to parts of the network, but SpaceX is taking the lead and must deliver a working prototype by the end of 2027.

The deal makes SpaceX a key pillar of U.S. military space infrastructure and increases reliance on a single provider.