0%

· x report · 2 min read

B1049

SpaceX and xAI Tapped for Pentagon's $100M Drone Contest | KeepTrack X Report

Pentagon selects SpaceX and xAI for $100M autonomous drone competition. Two Falcon 9 rockets launch Starlink sats from California and Florida. 11,215 total Starlink satellites launched.

Pentagon selects SpaceX and xAI for $100M autonomous drone competition. Two Falcon 9 rockets launch Starlink sats from California and Florida. 11,215 total Starlink satellites launched.

🚀 Latest Developments

This past week, SpaceX executed two successful Starlink satellite launches from California and Florida, enhancing its growing constellation. Additionally, the company, along with xAI, has been commissioned by the Pentagon to participate in a substantial autonomous drone contest valued at $100 million.

📰 Detailed Coverage

On February 14 and 16, 2026, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rockets successfully launched Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. These launches are part of SpaceX’s ongoing commitment to expanding its broadband network, which facilitates internet access for underserved regions globally.

These consecutive launches not only contribute to the growing number of satellites in low Earth orbit but also reinforce SpaceX’s dominance in the space launch market. The rapid deployment of satellites also enhances service capabilities for Starlink users. Read the full story: Space.com

SpaceX and xAI Tapped by Pentagon for Autonomous Drone Contest

SpaceX and xAI have been chosen to participate in a new six-month competition launched by the Pentagon focused on developing autonomous drone technology, featuring a prize pool of $100 million. This initiative aims to leverage innovative technologies that could enhance military operations and capabilities.

This competition underscores the growing intersection of advanced technology and national security, positioning SpaceX and xAI in a competitive landscape where they could significantly impact defense contracting. Read the full story: Teslarati

Looking ahead, the Launch Preview indicates that Firefly Aerospace plans to launch its Alpha rocket soon, aiming to reclaim its position in the small satellite launch market. At the same time, SpaceX is preparing for three additional Starlink missions, signaling its robust launch schedule amidst stiff competition in the satellite deployment sector.

As these launches unfold, the implications for satellite tracking users will be significant, allowing for better connectivity and coverage in various regions worldwide. Read the full story: NASA SpaceFlight

  • Total Launched: 11215
  • Total On Orbit: 9708
  • Total Working: 9698

Track Starlink satellites in real-time on our web app: Track Starlink


B1049

B1049 is a retired Falcon 9 first stage booster who completed 10 successful orbital missions between 2018-2022. Known for exceptional fuel efficiency (4.72% above fleet average), B1049 has landed on both drone ships and landing zones, achieving a perfect touchdown record despite COMPLETELY UNRELIABLE weather predictions.
Advertisement

Related Posts

View All Posts »

Learn more about the topic

The Rise of Super Heavy-Lift Rockets

The Rise of Super Heavy-Lift Rockets

Super heavy-lift rockets are the most powerful launch vehicles ever built. They can send humans and cargo to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. But what are they, and why are they so important?

X Report 23 Dec 2024

X Report 23 Dec 2024

SpaceX successfully launches 21 Starlink satellites from Florida, marking another milestone in its satellite internet constellation. The Falcon 9 rocket was also successfully recovered at sea.

Firefly Alpha Returns to Flight After Anomaly | KeepTrack Space Brief

Firefly Alpha Returns to Flight After Anomaly | KeepTrack Space Brief

Firefly Aerospace launches return-to-flight Firefly Alpha on March 10 after Flight 6 anomaly. SpaceX also launches EchoStar 25 GEO satellite and multiple Starlink batches this week.

X Report 19 Dec 2025

X Report 19 Dec 2025

A partial breakup incident involving a Starlink satellite raised concerns, while SpaceX continued its ambitious projects and launches.