by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Feb 12, 2025
Redwire Corporation (NYSE: RDW), a leader in space infrastructure, has secured a contract from Orion Space Solutions to supply a Mako spacecraft for the U.S. Space Force's (USSF) Tetra-6 mission. This initiative, overseen by Space Systems Command (SSC), is a continuation of the Tetra-5 mission under the USSF and Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), where Redwire is already providing two Mako spacecraft.
The Mako spacecraft for the Tetra-5 and Tetra-6 missions will be among the first in geosynchronous orbit (GEO) to undergo on-orbit refueling and showcase compatibility with multiple refueling technologies. Tetra-5 is set to demonstrate key capabilities such as cooperative and pre-planned inspection, docking, in-space refueling, proximity operations, and advanced autonomous spacecraft functions. These advancements will contribute to the development of future servicing, autonomous operations, and prolonged space maneuvering. Tetra-6 will build upon this foundation by showcasing additional technological innovations for the USSF.
"Redwire now offers spacecraft platforms for missions in every orbit, from very low-Earth orbit to low-Earth orbit, geosynchronous orbit, and beyond," said Peter Cannito, Redwire Chairman and CEO. "These platforms provide essential capabilities for national security operations. By delivering adaptable, cost-efficient, and dependable spacecraft solutions, Redwire ensures that our nation and its allies are prepared to confront evolving challenges and safeguard critical space assets."
Redwire's expanding spacecraft portfolio now includes Mako, Thresher, Hammerhead, SabreSat, and Phantom. The company is actively manufacturing Mako, Thresher, and SabreSat for various U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) missions, including operations for the USSF and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Meanwhile, the Hammerhead and Phantom spacecraft are supporting European Space Agency (ESA) projects focused on technological advancements and exploration. This includes the Proba-1, -2, and -V missions currently in orbit, as well as Proba-3, which successfully launched in December 2024.
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