Space Force awards contracts to commercial companies for $4 billion satellite communications project

The Space Force is investing in commercial companies to develop secure, jam-resistant satellite communications for military forces. As part of its Protected Tactical Satcom (PTS) program, it has awarded contracts to Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Viasat, Intelsat, and the startup Astranis. This marks a shift from the military’s traditional method of acquiring geostationary satellites, which involved lengthy development and high costs. The program’s goal is to provide secure communications for military operations, with a $4 billion ceiling in potential contracts. The initial awards, totaling $37.3 million, are focused on the design and demonstration of satellites, with production contracts to be awarded in 2028. This approach leverages the speed and innovation of commercial firms to meet the military’s evolving needs, potentially transforming how satellite communications are procured in the defense sector.