The US Space Development Agency (SDA) is reportedly collaborating with California-based EpiSci to create a software tool for detecting hypersonic missiles in low Earth orbit using satellite data.

The SDA aims to establish a network of 100 satellites in low Earth orbit for tracking hypersonic movements and issuing alerts, as per reports from SpaceNews. The primary hurdle in the project lies in creating software capable of effectively processing data from satellite sensors within the atmosphere and extracting accurate information.

In pursuit of this objective, EpiSci has entered into a two-year, $1.6 million contract with the SDA, enabling the testing of its artificial intelligence-driven software against data obtained from sensors in low Earth orbit. The aim is reportedly to detect and track hypersonic activity effectively.

The announcement coincides with the recent disclosure from the US Department of Defense, stating that six reconnaissance satellites have been deployed into orbit for the purpose of monitoring hypersonic weapons and aircraft.

The big picture

Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that Russia holds the global lead in the development of hypersonic systems. At the time, US Senator Angus King expressed concerns in January, suggesting that the United States might have fallen behind in the race to develop hypersonic systems.

In March 2023, Defense News reported remarks from US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, stating that a recent hypersonic test was not successful. However, by December, Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Heidi Shyu announced plans for the Pentagon to conduct joint hypersonic missile tests with the Australian military in 2024.

As China and Russia are making significant strides in the production and advancement of their indigenous hypersonic weapons, the United States is intensifying efforts to bolster its capabilities in this domain. The US concern arises as both China and Russia have claimed notable achievements in hypersonic technology, prompting it to enhance its focus on developing and deploying effective hypersonic systems to maintain a competitive edge in strategic defense. 

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