SpaceX Secures $4.16 Billion U.S. Space Force Contract for Golden Dome Missile-Defense Satellites

The U.S. Space Force awarded SpaceX a $4.16 billion contract on May 30, 2026, to build satellites that track airborne threats for the Pentagon’s Golden Dome missile defense system, reinforcing the company’s surging defense backlog as it eyes an initial public offering. The contract, under the Space-Based Advanced Moving Target Indicator program, will integrate sensors and data systems into a satellite constellation expected to begin initial deployment by 2028. It is the second major award to SpaceX this week: on May 28, the Space Force granted a $2.29 billion contract for a high-speed secure satellite communications network. Golden Dome, pushed by the Trump administration, aims to create a multi-layered defense with ground and space sensors. The program’s total budget has risen to $185 billion, including a recent $10 billion increase to accelerate space capabilities. SpaceX, privately held, is targeting a valuation above $1.75 trillion in its upcoming IPO.