Starfish Space, based in Tukwila, Washington, has secured a significant contract worth $54.5 million from the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command to develop another Otter satellite servicing spacecraft. This award represents a major milestone, as it is the only contract of its kind issued under the Pentagon's Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT) program during this cycle and ranks among the largest in its history.
The latest agreement builds upon a previous contract valued at $37.5 million received in 2024 through the Department of the Air Force's Strategic Funding Increase program. The Otter spacecraft is designed for dynamic operations in geosynchronous Earth orbit, with delivery expected by 2028 and an option for two additional years of operational support.
Starfish's co-founder, Austin Link, expressed pride in expanding the partnership with the Space Force, emphasizing the importance of APFIT in transitioning the Otter from development to operational use. The Otter’s unique capabilities allow it to service satellites, even those not originally designed for such adjustments, potentially extending their operational life or facilitating safe disposal.