US Military Moves Ahead with BASIC Satellite Plans

The Broad Area Space-based Imagery Collector (BASIC) which we discussed in a podcast is a new vision for government ownership of remote sensing satellites. Talked about for some time, the plan is actually moving ahead. On Monday Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Director of National Intelligence Michael McConnell approved the purchase of two commercial grade satellites (and related launch and monitoring facilities) for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO). The deal uses military intelligence funds.

The contract details are still up in the air but it appears the NRO will launch birds with 1.1 meter aperture in about four years at a cost of $1.7 billion. There are no details on resolution. Commercial players are not happy about this move, nor is Pentagon acquisition chief John Young, who says it goes against a presidential directive to use commercial sources whenever possible.

- Reuters