Redwire Secures Contract for U.S. Space Force Orbital Refueling Experiment

Space infrastructure company Redwire has secured a contract to provide an additional satellite platform for the U.S. Space Force’s Tetra-6 in-orbit refueling experiment.

The newly ordered satellite will be the third Mako satellite bus developed for these experiments, joining two previously commissioned for the Tetra-5 mission. The Tetra-6 mission, scheduled for launch in 2027, follows Tetra-5, which is expected to fly in 2025.

Arcfield, the prime contractor for both experiments, confirmed that the Space Force had initially assigned three spacecraft to Tetra-5 but later repurposed one to support Tetra-6.

Advancing In-Space Refueling Technologies

The Tetra-5 and Tetra-6 experiments are pivotal in demonstrating the feasibility of in-space refueling operations.

As military and commercial stakeholders seek innovative ways to maintain and extend the operational life of satellites, these missions represent crucial testbeds for new refueling capabilities. Successful demonstrations could set the stage for a new era of satellite sustainability and resilience in geostationary orbit (GEO).

Fuel delivery satellites, provided by either Orbit Fab or Northrop Grumman, will attempt rendezvous, docking, and propellant transfer maneuvers with the Arcfield-built spacecraft at an altitude of approximately 22,236 miles above Earth. The Mako platforms, designed by Redwire, will feature specialized sensors for proximity operations and docking interfaces developed by Orbit Fab or Northrop Grumman.

Redwire’s Strategic Role in the Program

Redwire’s involvement in the Tetra-6 program stems from its 2024 acquisition of Hera Systems, a small satellite manufacturer with expertise in military space applications. This acquisition positioned Redwire as a key supplier for advanced spacecraft tailored for military missions, including the growing demand for on-orbit servicing and refueling technologies.

The Mako satellite platforms will be among the first in geosynchronous orbit to test compatibility with in-space refueling, positioning Redwire at the forefront of this emerging capability. The integration of docking interfaces and precision proximity sensors underscores the company’s role in advancing the technical requirements necessary for routine in-space refueling.

Contract and Mission Development Timeline

Prior to Arcfield’s leadership on the Tetra missions, Orion Space Solutions had secured a $44.5 million contract in 2022 to support the refueling experiment. Following this, Hera Systems (now part of Redwire) was selected as the spacecraft supplier. In November 2024, Arcfield received an extension from the Space Force to incorporate the additional Tetra-6 mission into the program.

With the growing emphasis on in-orbit servicing, refueling, and life extension capabilities, the Tetra-5 and Tetra-6 experiments could pave the way for routine maintenance of operational satellites. These efforts are critical as the U.S. military seeks to enhance the resilience and longevity of its space assets amid an evolving geopolitical landscape.

As Redwire continues its collaboration with Arcfield and the Space Force, the results of these upcoming missions will likely influence the future direction of satellite servicing and orbital logistics.