Momentus secures contract for HALO Prototype from SDA

Momentus secures contract for HALO Prototype from SDA
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Nov 13, 2024
Momentus Inc. (NASDAQ: MNTS) has announced that it has secured a contract from the U.S. Defense Department's Space Development Agency (SDA) as part of the Hybrid Acquisition for Proliferated LEO (HALO) initiative.

The SDA's mission involves establishing a robust network of satellites in low-Earth orbit (LEO). The HALO program is designed to expedite the prototyping and spaceflight testing process, enabling innovative technologies to be integrated into upcoming phases of this satellite constellation. SDA Director Derek Tournear stated, "SDA is proud to welcome 19 vendors into the first-ever HALO pool. This creative award solution enables SDA to quickly compete, build, and fly demonstration missions to burn down risk for the future of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. We also hope, through the HALO pool, to build a broader base of vendors that can compete for work on operational layers of future tranches."

Participation in the HALO program is a prerequisite for companies to compete for these targeted demonstration prototype contracts, with multiple awards anticipated each year. The HALO program's contracting structure is designed for agility and efficiency in awarding follow-on contracts.

Momentus expressed enthusiasm for being chosen for HALO, emphasizing its readiness to collaborate with the SDA on future prototype missions and projects. Momentus, serving as a prime system integrator, brings substantial expertise in handling diverse payloads. The company's Vigoride spacecraft bus is particularly suited for missions under this program, capable of supporting various payloads and complex operations managed from their San Jose, CA control center.

Prototype contracts awarded under HALO are intended to achieve comprehensive mission demonstrations, typically aiming for launches 12-18 months post-award. These projects require leadership by Non-traditional Defense Contractors such as Momentus. The company's team is set to engage in both classified and unclassified project support.

"We're delighted by the opportunity to work with SDA to demonstrate key technologies that will help ensure our Nation's safety and space superiority," commented Momentus CEO John Rood. "Vigoride's flexibility, payload capacity, and power make it well-positioned to support a range of national security missions. With three launches in one year, Vigoride has proven it is ready to take on the most challenging missions."