The Space Force is making significant investments to ensure that American warfighters have access to jam-proof communications. This effort includes the Protected Tactical Satcom program, which aims to enhance secure battlefield communications through satellites. Contracts have already been awarded to Boeing and Northrop Grumman to develop prototype payloads for satellites in geostationary orbit.
In a new development, the Space Force has awarded five additional contracts for the design and demonstration of purpose-built satellites to provide jam-resistant communications to tactical forces. The winners include Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Viasat, Intelsat, and Astranis, a startup based in San Francisco. These initial awards amount to $37.3 million, with a potential total award ceiling of $4 billion.
Each company will work on developing their architectures until January 2026. Following this, the Space Force will select one design for the first satellite, with a planned launch in 2028. Production awards will also be given out in 2028. This approach marks a departure from the traditional lengthy and expensive process of procuring geostationary satellites, instead leveraging the speed and competition of commercial entrants.
Program executive officer Cordell DeLaPena Jr. highlighted the significance of the PTS-G contract in transforming how the Space Force acquires SATCOM capability. By incorporating commercial baseline designs to meet military requirements, the Space Force aims to enhance its speed and efficiency in responding to emerging threats.
The Space Force’s commitment to ensuring jam-proof communications for American warfighters underscores the importance of secure battlefield communications in modern warfare. Through strategic partnerships and innovative approaches, the Space Force is paving the way for enhanced capabilities in satellite communications for tactical forces.
