WASHINGTON — True Anomaly, a space technology startup focusing on national security applications, announced Jan. 8 the appointment of Stephen Kitay as senior vice president of space defense, marking a significant addition to its executive team as the company seeks to expand its footprint in the defense sector.
Kitay, a prominent figure in U.S. space policy, was instrumental in the establishment of the U.S. Space Force during his tenure as deputy assistant secretary of defense for space policy. He also played a legislative role in shaping the Space Force as a staff member on the House Armed Services Committee. Most recently, Kitay served at Microsoft, where he led strategic ventures within Azure Space, integrating commercial technologies into defense applications.
The appointment comes at a crucial time for the Colorado-based company, which is developing specialized satellites for military training and space domain awareness. True Anomaly’s flagship product, the Jackal satellite, is designed for rendezvous and proximity operations — capabilities that are viewed as increasingly important as space becomes more contested.
True Anomaly is currently preparing for the “Victus Haze” mission under contract with the U.S. Space Force, part of the military’s Tactically Responsive Space program. The mission will demonstrate advanced in-orbit capabilities, with True Anomaly’s Jackal operating alongside a Rocket Lab spacecraft.
Kitay told SpaceNews he will focus on building relationships with customers and lawmakers in Washington, D.C., while positioning True Anomaly’s technology as a training platform for Space Force operators.
He emphasized the growing intersection of commercial space technology and national security interests as private companies seek to address emerging threats in space. He highlighted True Anomaly’s approach that combines satellites, software, artificial intelligence and autonomous technologies to tackle complex defense challenges. “We’re at a unique time where private-sector innovation can provide solutions much faster and cheaper than traditional defense procurement processes,” Kitay said.
“The threats have never been greater. The competition has never been greater,” Kitay added, highlighting the critical role of space in national security and everyday life.
He noted that the space defense industry is now at an inflection point, with private companies taking the lead in developing cutting-edge technologies with the potential to address urgent defense needs.
