Anduril Industries has entered into a partnership with startup Apex Space to provide satellite buses for upcoming military space missions.

This collaboration is part of Anduril's broader strategy to enhance its defense space portfolio, leveraging its expertise in software and autonomy.

As part of this initiative, Anduril plans to develop and launch its own spacecraft by late 2025, focusing on applications like space domain awareness and satellite defense.

Recently, the U.S. Space Force awarded Anduril a $25.3 million contract to enhance its AI-powered Lattice software for the Space Surveillance Network (SSN), which aims to improve communication resilience and monitoring capabilities.

The partnership with Apex Space signifies a shift in Anduril's approach, moving away from solely in-house production to rapidly deploying satellite payloads for the U.S. Department of Defense.

Subramanian highlighted Apex's quick turnaround in delivering satellite buses as a critical factor in their selection as a partner.

Anduril's Lattice software will play a central role in integrating data from various sensors, providing a comprehensive view of the space environment.

This contract extends through March 2026 and builds on previous work by Anduril, which includes earlier contracts for similar enhancements.

Gokul Subramanian, Anduril's Senior Vice President of Space and Engineering, emphasized the company's goal to launch its first space monitoring satellites by the end of 2025, targeting the Space Force as a primary market.

This initiative positions Anduril to potentially take on prime contractor roles in significant defense contracts, including those from the Space Development Agency.

In August, Anduril raised $1.5 billion in funding and announced plans to construct a five million-square-foot factory to scale its defense production capabilities.

The announcement of these developments was made on October 1, marking a significant step in Anduril's entry into the military space sector.