18 New L3Harris Infrared Satellites Set to Transform F‑35 and B‑21 Cockpits

On September 24, the Space Development Agency confirmed that L3Harris’ Tracking Layer Tranche 3 (TRKT3) program will advance, adding 18 infrared tracking satellites to the U. S. combat cloud. These satellites will link next‑generation stealth aircraft—such as the fifth‑generation F‑35 Lightning II and the sixth‑generation B‑21 Raider—to commercial satellite internet, providing real‑time situational awareness and data sharing directly in the cockpit. The network is also slated to support the future F‑47, positioning the U. S. air forces to leverage a more integrated, cloud‑based command and control architecture. The rollout marks a pivotal step in marrying high‑speed aircraft with cutting‑edge space‑borne sensors, potentially reshaping how pilots receive and process battlefield information.