A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched the NROL-113 mission for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) late last night, marking the third deployment of a new imaging satellite constellation, Space News reports.
The launch occurred at 11:20 p.m. Eastern from Space Launch Complex-4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
The exact number of satellites launched on this mission remains classified, but it follows the first two deployments in May and June, which established the foundation of the NRO’s “Strength in Numbers” strategy. This approach utilizes numerous, smaller satellites in low Earth orbit to create a more capable and resilient surveillance network.
The Falcon 9’s first-stage booster, making its 20th flight, successfully landed on a drone ship stationed in the Pacific Ocean after stage separation.
The NRO, responsible for designing and operating classified U.S. government surveillance and intelligence satellites, has emphasized the rapid deployment of this new architecture. The completion of three launches in just four months underscores the agency’s commitment to enhancing its capabilities.
The NROL-113 emblem, featuring blue circles representing a constellation of satellites, visually encapsulates the “Strength in Numbers” concept. Additional launches supporting this proliferated architecture are expected through 2028.
