SpaceX wins $2.29 billion Space Force contract for military data network

The U.S. Space Force awarded SpaceX a $2.29 billion contract to build the Space Data Network Backbone, an optically linked low Earth orbit constellation meant to move military data through space. The program sits inside the broader Space Data Network effort now overseen by the service’s new space-based sensing and targeting acquisition office. The award pushes commercial LEO transport deeper into the center of Pentagon network architecture.

Key takeaways from Trump’s cabinet meeting: Iran, Ebola, midterms

Trump’s latest Cabinet meeting pulled Iran negotiations, Ebola screening and midterm politics into the same White House session. The mix showed how foreign policy, public-health controls and campaign positioning are competing for bandwidth inside the administration.

More than half of Americans say they 'definitely will vote' in midterms: Poll

An Economist/YouGov poll found 57 percent of respondents say they will definitely vote in November’s midterms. The result points to unusually strong stated engagement this far ahead of Election Day, a signal both parties will watch as turnout planning intensifies.

Puerto Rico governor announces state of emergency to fight coastal erosion

Puerto Rico’s governor declared a state of emergency over accelerating coastal erosion along the island’s northern coast. The order frames sea-level rise, storm surge and related damage as an immediate governance problem rather than a distant environmental risk.

Kongsberg NanoAvionics sets sights on building and supporting sovereign constellations

After winning a 122.5 million euro contract to build the first 280 satellites for SpinLaunch’s Meridian Space constellation, Kongsberg NanoAvionics is positioning itself for larger sovereign-network programs. Executives say Kongsberg’s backing and production-scaling experience helped move the company from bespoke smallsat work toward volume manufacturing.

Spire expands European manufacturing with Munich plant

Spire opened a Munich facility that can help lift output across its plants to roughly 300 to 400 satellites a year. The company says its transatlantic manufacturing footprint is becoming a competitive advantage as sovereignty and local-production rules matter more in defense procurement.

Sitael Accelerates Growth in Space: New Missions, Industrial Capacity and a Trajectory Towards 2031

Sitael said it is targeting 200 million euros in revenue by 2031, backed by more than 150 million euros in backlog and nine launches planned by 2030. The company also highlighted its ESA Scout HiBiDiS role and new Earth-observation partnerships as proof it is scaling into Europe’s next industrial cycle.

North Korea Tests New Lightweight Launch System and Tactical Cruise Missiles

North Korea said it tested a new lightweight multipurpose launcher alongside tactical cruise missile systems as part of its force-modernization drive. The trial signals continued effort to diversify launch options and sharpen regional strike capacity.

Chinese Use Electronic Warfare Attacks on Dutch Warship in South China Sea, Says PLA

China’s PLA said it used warnings and electronic interference to drive a Dutch frigate and helicopter away from airspace over the Paracels. The episode underscores how quickly routine presence operations in the South China Sea can turn into contested signaling between China and allied navies.