The U.S. Space Force has awarded SpaceX a $2.29 billion contract to build a low Earth orbit satellite network designed to function as a military “internet in space.”

The system, called the Space Data Network Backbone, will use SpaceX’s Starshield satellites to rapidly relay sensitive military data between spacecraft, sensors, and command systems.

It is intended to serve as a core communications layer for future military operations, enabling near real-time global connectivity for targeting and defense systems.

The network will integrate with other Space Force satellite constellations, though the shift in procurement has raised concerns about reliance on a single contractor, Space News has reported.

The Space Force aims to deliver a working prototype by the end of 2027 as part of a broader effort to modernize space-based military communications.