Derek Tournear will return as the director of the Space Development Agency (SDA) on April 17, 2025, after a three-month administrative leave due to an investigation into past contracting practices.

The investigation was initiated following a bid protest from Viasat, a losing bidder, which alleged unfair treatment during the contracting process.

Tournear was removed from his position on January 16, 2025, amid allegations of procedural irregularities related to $424 million in contracts for Tranche 2 Transport Layer satellites.

An internal review by the Air Force found that an SDA official violated the Procurement Integrity Act in communications with Tyvak and other contractors.

As a result of the investigation, the SDA announced plans to recompete the contract awarded to Tyvak while maintaining the contract with York Space Systems intact.

Tournear's return is critical as the SDA is currently facing significant challenges in satellite development programs, particularly production delays due to supply chain issues.

The SDA is tasked with developing the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA), which aims to enhance military operations through a network of low Earth orbit satellites.

The SDA's Transport Layer is a vital component of the Defense Department's strategy to maintain technological superiority in space.

Concerns have been raised about potential budget pressures and a shift in procurement strategy, including discussions about replacing planned satellite purchases with SpaceX's Starshield satellites.

The Pentagon is finalizing a separate review of the SDA’s organizational culture, with Tournear expected to implement any recommendations upon his return.

Tournear has received strong support from members of Congress, including Sen. Kevin Cramer, who emphasized the importance of innovation in satellite procurement.

The investigation specifically focused on a contract awarded in August 2024 to Tyvak for $254 million to build prototype satellites, alongside York Space Systems, which received $170 million for similar work.