Space Force names technical direction agent for SBI program

The U.S. Space Force has selected Johns Hopkins University’s Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) as technical direction agent for its Space-Based Interceptor (SBI) program, a growing effort to field a defensive layer in space.

Backed by Golden Dome for America, the SBI initiative aims to deploy a proliferated constellation in low Earth orbit that can engage threats in the boost, midcourse and glide phases, bolstering homeland defense and deterrence while keeping U.S. space operations resilient, responsive and informed.

As technical direction agent, APL will serve as an independent advisor charged with keeping the system architecture consistent across multiple industry teams. The lab will help define and manage technical interface documents that bind together fire-control and ground systems with the interceptor constellation, and coordinate among program participants so the government can make data-driven decisions.

The program is using a prize-based acquisition model in which commercial firms invest early and compete for additional government funding at specific development milestones—an approach intended to attract a wide field of contenders and accelerate delivery.

“This is another great example of our ongoing strong partnership with APL and highlights the critical nature of University Affiliated Research Centers and Federally Funded Research and Development Centers to the success of these vital space programs” said Col. Bryon McClain, acting Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Space Combat Power.

The SBI program office sits within Space Systems Command at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. Space Force officials said no additional details are being released for operational security reasons.

APL, a University Affiliated Research Center, has long supported U.S. missile defense and space missions, positioning it to oversee complex interfaces across government and industry as the Space Force explores a space-based defensive layer. The move underscores a broader Pentagon push to leverage proliferated constellations and competitive, milestone-driven contracting to speed capabilities into the field.