Space Exploration Technologies Corp has been awarded a U.S. Department of Defense contract valued at over $4 billion to construct a satellite tracking system for the "Gold Dome" missile defense initiative promoted by former President Trump. The system is designed to monitor foreign aircraft and missile activities. According to a statement released by the U.S. Space Force, this space-based tracking network will integrate space sensors, communication systems, and AI-driven ground data processing capabilities to provide real-time monitoring and early warning of aerial threats from orbit. The United States has traditionally relied on ground-based radar and military aircraft for airspace surveillance, but space-deployed detection capabilities are expected to eliminate "blind spots" in conventional monitoring systems. The contract, valued at $4.16 billion, underscores the deepening relationship between Space Exploration Technologies Corp and the U.S. Department of Defense, as well as its central role in the "Gold Dome" program. "Gold Dome" aims to establish a next-generation national security protection network for the U.S. through a multi-layered defense system covering Earth to space. Previous reports indicate that Space Exploration Technologies Corp is already involved in developing a space interceptor prototype for the project and has joined a software consortium with multiple companies to build the core operating system required for "Gold Dome" operations. Beyond missile defense, Space Exploration Technologies Corp is also collaborating with the U.S. Space Force to develop a military communication network based on its "Starshield" platform. "Starshield" is the military version of its satellite internet system "Starlink," offering encrypted and secure communication services. Additionally, Space Exploration Technologies Corp's Falcon 9 rockets continue to handle launch missions for critical U.S. national security satellites for the Department of Defense. In March, U.S. Space Force General Michael Guetlein, responsible for the "Gold Dome" project, stated that the budget for the first phase of the defense system had been increased to $185 billion to accelerate development. According to the plan, "Gold Dome" is expected to achieve initial operational capability by the end of Trump's potential term, around 2028. Notably, the contract awarded to Space Exploration Technologies Corp utilizes the "Other Transaction Authority" rapid procurement mechanism. This mechanism aims to reduce administrative barriers in traditional government procurement processes, speed up technology deployment, and encourage commercial companies to participate in defense projects. The U.S. Space Force stated that the project will introduce more commercial suppliers in the future, with plans to announce additional contract awards within the year. A spokesperson for the U.S. Space Systems Command said that Space Exploration Technologies Corp won the bid due to its standout performance in the competitive tender for "space dynamic target tracking technology." Meanwhile, the market is closely watching Space Exploration Technologies Corp's capital market movements. Sources reveal that the company is preparing to advance its initial public offering plans in the coming weeks, targeting a valuation of at least $1.8 trillion. If successful, Space Exploration Technologies Corp could become one of the highest-valued technology and aerospace companies globally.