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WASHINGTON — The U.S. Space Force awarded a $200 million contract to Northrop Grumman to construct a radar site in the United Kingdom to monitor objects in outer space. This initiative is part of the AUKUS security alliance involving Australia, the U.K. and the United States.
The contract, announced Aug. 23, is for the second site of the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC) program, which aims to create a global network of three advanced radar systems — one in each of the AUKUS partner nations. The first DARC site is currently under development in Western Australia, expected to be operational by 2026, while a third site is being planned in the United States.
The DARC system is designed to provide continuous, all-weather coverage to detect, track, identify, and characterize objects in geosynchronous orbit, approximately 22,000 miles above Earth. Unlike existing optical systems, DARC will operate regardless of daylight.
Northrop Grumman secured a $341 million contract in 2022 for the first DARC site in Western Australia.
The UK Ministry of Defence revealed plans to redevelop Cawdor Barracks in Pembrokeshire, Wales, to host the DARC radar site. Previously slated for closure by 2028, the barracks would be redeveloped to accommodate up to 100 personnel to operate and maintain the radar system.
The Ministry of Defence said it will conduct an environmental assessment to gain approval for the redevelopment of Cawdor Barracks. This step is crucial for the project to proceed as planned. Local residents and environmental activists have raised concerns about the potential impacts of the radar installation. The MOD said it will ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.