Boeing awarded $2.8B contract for Space Force’s secure communications program

The U.S. Space Force has awarded Boeing a $2.8 billion contract to enhance secure communications for strategic missions under its Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications (ESS) program. The contract will fund the development of two initial satellites, with options for two additional satellites. Boeing outbid Northrop Grumman for this contract, with both companies having previously built prototype satellites for the ESS program. The new satellites will improve resilience and offer better cybersecurity capabilities compared to the existing Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) constellation. This new effort aims to secure reliable communications for national security, addressing the evolving threats in space. The ESS program, which will be completed by 2033, is part of a larger $12 billion initiative, with further satellites expected to be procured. In addition, the Space Force has decided to cancel another SATCOM program, Protected Tactical SATCOM-Resilient (PTS-R), shifting its focus to faster delivery of anti-jamming capabilities. The change in strategy is expected to reduce costs and provide lower-risk contracts. The first prototypes of the Protected Tactical SATCOM are set to launch next year, continuing the push for enhanced military communications in space.