Umbra chosen for NRO Strategic Enhancements Stage III to boost SAR capabilities
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Dec 05, 2024

Umbra, a leader in space technology and operator of the world's highest-resolution commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites, has secured the Stage III option under the National Reconnaissance Office's (NRO) Commercial Radar Capabilities contract. This development is part of the NRO's Strategic Commercial Enhancements (SCE) program, aimed at utilizing innovative commercial Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) technologies to reinforce the U.S. Government's intelligence architecture.

Stage III builds upon the success of earlier phases by expanding SAR data delivery capabilities to address critical areas such as disaster relief, environmental monitoring, and crisis management. Umbra's selection follows its demonstrated success in meeting on-orbit performance and mission objectives, positioning the company as a vital contributor to the U.S. Government's ISR framework.

"Advancing to Stage III marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of Umbra's SAR capabilities," said Omar Wheatley, Director, Strategic Programs. "We're excited to deepen our collaboration with the NRO and continue delivering our industry-leading high-quality SAR data that strengthens the nation's intelligence and defense capabilities."

Umbra's SAR satellites deliver significantly higher data volumes - up to five times more than competitors - while maintaining cost efficiency. "As a fully American company, we're proud to maximize taxpayer value by delivering the most data and the best data to the NRO at the lowest cost," said David Langan, CEO of Umbra.

Umbra has a strong history of collaboration with the NRO, having been previously awarded the Stage II option of the Commercial Radar Capabilities contract in late 2022 and an additional Stage II option focused on Commercial RF Capabilities in early 2024.

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