Military forces have a long association with spaceflight, with modern rockets evolving from missiles developed during World War II. Today's armed forces rely on space-based assets for reconnaissance, weather tracking, communication, navigation and more. The U.S. Air Force regularly launches GPS and missile-defense tracking satellites, and operates two classified X-37B robotic space planes. Learn more about military satellites, space weapon, the Space Force and more here.
Related Topics: NASA
Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: community@space.com.
Latest about military space
US military test-launches unarmed nuclear missile on election night (video)
The United States military test-launched an unarmed nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Nov. 5, 2024.
Japan launches military communications satellite on 4th flight of H3 rocket (video)
Japan launched the Kirameki 3 military communications satellite Monday morning (Nov. 4), on the fourth-ever flight of the country's H3 rocket.
North Korea launches intercontinental ballistic missile to space, reaches record altitude
North Korea test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile on Wednesday (July 12), shortly after complaining about purported spying activity by the United States.
Space Force's mysterious X-37B space plane to attempt new 'aerobraking' maneuvers in orbit
The U.S. military's X-37B space plane is about to begin a series of novel maneuvers, according to a rare official update on the spacecraft.
Trump says he'd create a Space National Guard if elected
Former President Trump said he would create a Space National Guard if elected for a second term this November.
Atlas V rocket launches its final national security mission for US military (video)
United Launch Alliance's venerable Atlas V rocket flew its final national security mission early Tuesday (July 30).
US military project aims to prevent hackers targeting satellites and recognizes rising threat of cyberattacks in space
The US military recently launched a groundbreaking initiative to strengthen ties with the commercial space industry.
Pentagon picks SpaceX, Blue Origin and ULA for $5.6 billion launch deal
SpaceX, Blue Origin and United Launch Alliance will compete for National Security Space Launch contracts worth up to $5.6 billion across fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
