Maxar to Provide 3D Terrain Data for U.S. Army
Maxar Intelligence is poised to revolutionise battlefield awareness with its delivery of advanced 3D mapping and terrain data. This data will support a new U.S. Army digital platform, the Soldier-Borne Mission Command Architecture (SBMC-A), developed by defence contractor Anduril Industries. The platform, when integrated with Maxar’s data, will create an immersive view of the battlefield through specialised headsets, significantly enhancing the Army’s operational capabilities.
The U.S. Army has committed significant resources to the project, awarding $159 million to Anduril and a further $195 million to Rivet, a startup supported by Palantir Technologies. Both companies are building prototype wearable devices designed to enhance operational awareness for soldiers in the field. This new system replaces the Integrated Visual Augmentation System. This previous multibillion-dollar initiative was cancelled after failing to meet key performance requirements.
Maxar’s unique contribution to the programme lies in its fleet of high-resolution Earth observation satellites, capable of generating highly detailed three-dimensional models of the planet. The Army plans to integrate this geospatial foundation into SBMC-A, overlaying real-time maps, sensor information, and intelligence data onto helmet-mounted displays. This innovative design, departing from the traditional standalone device concept, focuses on software, networking, and integration capabilities, transforming every soldier into an active component of a broader command-and-control network.
The new system is expected to revolutionise battlefield awareness, delivering situational awareness at a level usually reserved for command centres, and extending these capabilities to small units operating on the ground. By enabling soldiers to receive near-real-time geospatial intelligence directly in their line of sight, the Army hopes to create a more connected and responsive battlefield environment. This approach aims to bridge the gap between decision-makers and field units, ensuring rapid access to critical information where it is most needed.
Maxar’s technology is the backbone of the system’s reliability and efficiency. Its ability to refresh terrain data within hours of new satellite collections ensures that the maps remain closely aligned with actual conditions on the ground. This rapid update cycle is expected to significantly improve combat readiness and training accuracy significantly, demonstrating the system’s commitment to providing the most up-to-date information.
The collaboration between Anduril and Maxar reflects a broader trend in the defence industry, where commercial satellite data is increasingly being leveraged to enhance frontline intelligence. By combining advanced private-sector geospatial capabilities with military-grade systems, the partnership underscores how the boundary between commercial and defence technologies continues to blur.
As SBMC-A progresses from prototype to potential deployment, the Army aims to demonstrate how modern digital infrastructure, powered by private-sector innovation, can redefine battlefield awareness. The integration of 3D terrain models with real-time intelligence feeds represents a significant step in ensuring that soldiers are not only connected but also informed at the level required to operate effectively in complex environments. The reliance on commercial satellite providers, such as Maxar, underscores the strategic importance of private-sector innovation in shaping the future of military technology, making the audience feel the impact of their work.
