The X-37B, often referred to as the Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV), is a reusable, unmanned spaceplane developed by Boeing and operated by the United States Space Force.
This advanced spacecraft is designed for long-duration missions in low Earth orbit (LEO) and serves as a platform for testing new technologies and conducting various experiments.
The X-37B has garnered significant attention due to its unique capabilities and potential military applications.
X-37B, Explained
The X-37B is a derivative of the earlier Boeing X-40, scaled up by 120%. It was initially developed by NASA in 1999 before being transferred to the Department of Defense (DoD) in 2004.
The spacecraft is launched into orbit by a rocket, such as the Atlas V or Falcon Heavy, and returns to Earth as a spaceplane, landing on a runway.
The X-37B’s design is reminiscent of the Space Shuttle, featuring a similar aerodynamic profile and lift-to-drag ratio.
One of the key features of the X-37B is its ability to remain in orbit for extended periods. The spacecraft has completed multiple missions, with durations ranging from several months to over two years. The seventh mission, which concluded in March 2025, lasted 434 days.
This longevity allows the X-37B to conduct a wide range of experiments and tests, making it a versatile asset for space operations.
Why the Military Wants the X-37B
Currently, the OTV is not used to house weapon payloads (yet), but there are several military applications in the meantime.
Firstly, the X-37B serves as a platform for testing new technologies in the harsh environment of space. This includes advanced materials, sensors, and propulsion systems.
By conducting these tests in orbit, the military can evaluate the performance and reliability of new technologies before deploying them in operational systems. This capability is crucial for maintaining technological superiority in space and other domains.
The X-37B can also be used for space domain awareness. Space domain awareness refers to the ability to detect, track, and characterize objects in space.
The X-37B has been used to test and develop technologies that enhance the United States Space Force’s knowledge of the space environment.
These technologies are essential for monitoring potential threats, such as hostile satellites or space debris, and ensuring the safety and security of space operations.
One of the early goals for the X-37B program was to develop a spacecraft capable of rendezvousing with satellites and performing repairs.
While this capability has not been fully realized, the X-37B’s maneuverability and flexibility make it a potential candidate for future satellite servicing missions.
This could include refueling, repairing, or upgrading existing satellites, extending their operational life and enhancing their capabilities.
Enhancing the United States’ Reach in Space
The X-37B is also an invaluable tool for collecting intelligence. It can be equipped with various sensors and instruments for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. By operating in low Earth orbit, the spacecraft can gather high-resolution imagery and other data on areas of interest.
This information is valuable for military planning and operations, providing real-time situational awareness and enhancing decision-making capabilities.
The X-37B’s ability to launch and land quickly makes it a valuable asset for rapid deployment and recovery missions.
This capability allows the United States Space Force to respond swiftly to emerging threats or opportunities in space.
The spacecraft can be launched from multiple sites and recovered at various locations, providing flexibility and redundancy in space operations.
Paving the Way for Future Technologies
The X-37B program has continued to evolve, with each mission building on the successes of previous flights. The seventh mission, which concluded in March 2025, showcased several new capabilities, including a novel aerobraking maneuver.
This technique involves using atmospheric drag to change orbits while expending minimal fuel, demonstrating the spacecraft’s agility and flexibility.
Looking ahead, the X-37B is expected to play a critical role in the United States Space Force’s efforts to maintain dominance in space. The program will likely continue to focus on technology testing, space domain awareness, and other key areas.
Additionally, the X-37B’s potential for satellite servicing and ISR missions could be further developed, enhancing its utility for military operations.
The Orbital Test Vehicle is a remarkable spacecraft that has proven its value through multiple successful missions. Its ability to remain in orbit for extended periods, conduct a wide range of experiments, and demonstrate new technologies makes it a versatile asset for the United States Space Force.
The X-37B’s military applications, including technology testing, space domain awareness, satellite servicing, ISR, and rapid deployment, underscore its importance in maintaining technological superiority and ensuring the security of space operations.
As the X-37B program continues to advance, it will undoubtedly contribute to the United States’ efforts to dominate the space domain. With its unique capabilities and ongoing development, the X-37B is poised to play a pivotal role in the future of military space operations.
X-37B: A Photo Essay
Image Credit: NASA YouTube/Screenshot.
The Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV), the Air Force’s unmanned, reusable space plane, landed at Vandenberg Air Force Base at 5:48 a.m. (PDT) June 16. OTV-2, which launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., March 5, 2011, conducted on-orbit experiments for 469 days during its mission. The X-37B is the newest and most advanced re-entry spacecraft. Managed by the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office, the X-37B program performs risk reduction, experimentation and concept of operations development for reusable space vehicle technologies. (photo credit: Boeing)
Image Credit: Boeing.
In a testing procedure, the Orbital Test Vehicle taxis on the flightline March 30, 2010, at the Astrotech facility in Titusville, FLa. (Courtesy photo)
X-37B. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
The U.S. Airforce’s X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle mission 4 after landing at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility in Cape Canaveral, Florida, U.S., May 7, 2017. U.S. Air Force/Handout.
About the Author: Isaac Seitz
Isaac Seitz, a 19FortyFive Defense Columnist, graduated from Patrick Henry College’s Strategic Intelligence and National Security program. He has also studied Russian at Middlebury Language Schools and has worked as an intelligence Analyst in the private sector.
