The National Reconnaissance Office(NRO) is revamping its satellite ground architecture, dedicating substantial resources to integrating cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. 

Additionally, the NRO is expanding its satellite fleet diversity in conjunction with the overhaul of its ground systems, Troy Meink, Principal Deputy Director of the NRO said in a keynote speech at the 39th Space Symposium.

“We are pushing the boundaries to ensure we stay on the leading edge of innovation. Over the next decade, we will continue to increase the number of satellites operating across multiple orbits, not just large systems that are the traditional hallmark of the NRO, but also smaller proliferated systems,” Meink says.

The NRO will predominantly use AI to process the vast amount of data generated by its expanding satellite system.

“Expanding our overhead architecture will provide greater revisit rates, increased coverage, and more timely delivery of information. This will make our collection more agile, eliminate single points of failure and will make our constellations more resilient,” Meink adds.

The NRO is responsible for designing, building, launching, and maintaining U.S. reconnaissance satellites that gather intelligence information crucial for national security and defense. The Office’s primary mission is to provide timely and relevant intelligence to US policymakers, military forces, and intelligence agencies.