BAE Systems advances autonomous satellite-based tracking technology under DARPA Oversight Phase 2

Developing an autonomous system for persistent custody from orbit
DARPA has awarded a $16 million Phase 2 contract to BAE Systems’ FAST Labs™ organization to continue developing autonomous tracking technology for the Oversight program. The initiative seeks to create a space-based system capable of maintaining uninterrupted “custody” of numerous ground assets using proliferated satellite constellations.

Phase 1 demonstrated that the company’s software could run within a modelling and simulation environment, performing custody tasks on representative satellite and sensor models. Phase 2 will scale this capability to larger constellations, more complex operational scenarios, and higher-fidelity simulation tools. The software and algorithms will transition from simulation to deployment on tactical-edge satellites as well as ground stations, validating readiness for operational environments.

Increasing autonomy at the satellite edge
As future defence missions require greater autonomy and reduced reliance on ground processing, Oversight is designed to shift computation and decision-making to satellites themselves. According to BAE Systems, this evolution strengthens the tactical relevance of space systems by enabling satellites to process sensor data, coordinate tasks, and support decision-making without continuous ground intervention.

Placing processing and coordination in orbit reduces latency, increases revisit rates, and supports near real-time updates when tracking terrestrial activity. This allows space-based systems to provide persistent surveillance at tactical timescales rather than only strategic intervals.

Improving mission scalability and operational tempo
By maturing the custody algorithms and enabling coordinated behaviour across networks of satellites, the program aims to deliver a scalable architecture capable of handling large asset sets. Increased constellation size, combined with rapid on-orbit data sharing, enhances overall system resilience and ensures that custody can be maintained even as targets move, environmental conditions shift, or individual satellites change roles.

The expanded flow of timely information supports faster decision-making for operators and improves situational awareness across mission sets where continuous tracking is required.

Work will be carried out across BAE Systems’ sites in Burlington, Massachusetts, and Merrimack, New Hampshire, with modelling support and additional system development performed by subcontractor AIMdyn, Inc.

www.baesystems.com