A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched the classified NROL-69 mission for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) on March 24, marking the first National Security Space Launch of 2025.

This mission is part of the NRO’s effort to build the largest U.S. government satellite network, following the recent NROL-57 launch on March 21.

Over the past two years, the NRO has deployed more than 150 satellites, with plans for a dozen more launches in 2025, Space News has reported.

Partnering with SpaceX and Northrop Grumman, the agency aims to expand its advanced surveillance and intelligence-gathering capabilities.

Written by B.C. Begley