SpaceX launches third batch of satellites for NRO’s expanded constellation

WASHINGTON – A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched mission NROL-113 for the National Reconnaissance Office on Sept. 5.

The rocket launched at 11:20 p.m. Eastern Time from Space Launch Complex-4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

NROL-113 was the third set of satellites in a new constellation of imaging satellites being built by SpaceX and Northrop Grumman. The number of satellites in this mission has not been disclosed.

The Falcon 9 first stage booster completed its 20th flight. After stage separation, it landed on a drone ship stationed in the Pacific.

The NRO develops and operates classified surveillance and reconnaissance satellites for the U.S. government. SpaceX launched the first two satellites in the agency's expanded constellation into low Earth orbit in May and June.

The blue circles of the NROL-113 emblem artistically represent a growing satellite constellation. The slogan “Strength in Numbers” describes the NRO's new strategy to develop a large architecture across the sky – numerous smaller satellites designed for performance and resilience.

Additional product launches supporting NRO’s widespread architecture are expected by 2028.

Carrying out three launches in just four months, the NGO said, “underscores the rapid pace of implementation of this program.”

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