L3Harris Completes PDR for SDA Tranche 3 Missile Tracking Satellites

September 24, 2026

L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) has successfully completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) for the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) Tracking Layer Tranche 3 (TRKT3) program. The milestone marks an important step toward delivering next-generation, space-based missile defense capabilities for the United States.

The PDR confirms the baseline designs for L3Harris’ TRKT3 mission solution, which provides ground, networking, satellite, communications and infrared payloads. The integrated system will deliver infrared sensing, advanced on-orbit data processing and accurate real-time threat detection algorithms. 

“Beginning with Tranche 0, L3Harris’ disciplined spiral development approach has improved missile warning, tracking and defense capabilities required to address modern threats,” said Jeff Hanke, President, Space Systems, Space & Mission Systems, L3Harris. “That institutional knowledge is what drives speed and precision on programs and underscores why L3Harris is a trusted industry partner across SDA’s Tracking Layer mission.” 

Once on orbit, the TRKT3 satellites will deliver near-continuous global missile warning and tracking. They will operate as part of the SDA’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, a component of the nation’s layered missile defense strategy.

L3Harris received an  SDA contract in December 2025 to design and build 18 space vehicles for the T3 Tracking Layer. L3Harris has more than 70 missile tracking and defense satellites on order in support of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture.  

Source : L3Harris Technologies