York Space Systems Targets VLEO with New LX/V-Class Platform
York Space Systems has unveiled the LX/V-Class satellite, a modified platform designed to operate at 300 km altitudes for missile tracking and government missions.
Operational Altitudes Lowered
York Space Systems ($YSS) has officially entered the Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) arena with the introduction of its LX/V-Class satellite platform. According to Payload, the new bus is an evolution of York’s existing S- and LX-Class hardware, specifically re-engineered to withstand the increased atmospheric drag found at altitudes as low as 300 km.
Technical Specifications
The LX/V-Class is designed for mission durations exceeding three years. Key specifications include:
- Payload Capacity: ~300 kg mass capability.
- Power Generation: 2 kW peak power output.
- Propulsion: High-thrust electric systems provided by York subsidiary Orbion Space Technology.
- Integrated Comms: Jam-resistant RF capabilities via the recently acquired ALL.SPACE.
Market Positioning
While competitors like Redwire and Kreios Space are pursuing sub-300 km orbits—often requiring complex air-breathing propulsion—York is prioritizing deployment speed. CEO Dirk Wallinger stated that the 300 km floor is sufficient for current government requirements, including moving target indicators and missile tracking. By utilizing a modified existing architecture rather than a clean-sheet VLEO design, York aims to deliver flight-ready hardware within six to seven months of contract finalization.
Turnkey Ecosystem
York is leveraging its recent acquisitions of ALL.SPACE and ATLAS Space Operations to offer a full-stack solution. This vertical integration allows LX/V-Class operators to utilize a pre-established network of 50+ ground antennas, streamlining the transition from procurement to orbital operations. For the military and government sectors, York is betting that a "good enough" altitude delivered at high velocity will outperform more experimental, lower-altitude alternatives.