Illustration of Quantum Space's Ranger spacecraft
WASHINGTON — Quantum Space has won a Pentagon contract to develop a spacecraft capable of transferring propellant to satellites in geostationary orbit.
The Rockville, Maryland-based company said June 18 it will build the orbital refueling vehicle using its Ranger platform, a maneuverable spacecraft designed for missions including satellite servicing, space logistics and other operations.
The contract, whose value was not disclosed, is funded by the Department of Defense’s Operational Energy Capability Improvement Fund, or OECIF. Quantum said it expects to deliver the vehicle to the U.S. Space Force by 2028 and that the fuel depot will be compatible with military client spacecraft.
Quantum’s chief executive Jim Bridenstine described the award as an important step toward establishing a broader in-space logistics infrastructure to support long-duration military operations.
