News

The Space Force is planning to award contracts for programs worth approximately billion in fiscal 2024 as part of its efforts to modernize its military satellite communications and positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) capabilities. This is a significant increase from the .6 billion awarded in the previous fiscal year. The planned contracts, primarily focused on satellite communications (SATCOM), aim to enhance the Space Force’s resilient capabilities in orbit and on the ground.

Traditionally, the Space Force has relied on military-owned communication satellites located in geosynchronous orbit. However, it now views these satellites as potential targets and is transitioning to smaller satellites, including commercially owned ones in lower orbits. These satellites offer a broader range of capabilities, such as faster data transmission and better protection against enemy jamming attempts.

The Space Force will also be transitioning its PNT portfolio, which includes satellites like GPS, to more modern and resilient systems. The Space Warfighting Analysis Center is currently designing a plan for these capabilities, and findings are expected within the next year.

The anticipated contracts will fund new projects and upgrades to existing systems, supporting the Space Force’s transition to its new architecture. Notable contracts include an billion contract for the development of the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications constellation, which will replace legacy satellites and provide secure communications for strategic missions. Another billion contract will modernize the ground system supporting the Space Force’s Mobile User Objective System satellites, which offer narrowband communication capabilities.

Additionally, a 4 million contract will be awarded to Boeing for the construction of the 12th Wideband Global SATCOM satellite. This satellite will offer increased communications capacity and anti-jamming capabilities.

The contracts are expected to be awarded in fiscal 2024, with funding distributed over a longer period of time, as is typical for Defense Department programs. These initiatives will contribute to the Space Force’s efforts in advancing its satellite communications and PNT capabilities.

The post Space Force to Award Billion in Contracts for Satellite Communications and Navigation Programs appeared first on satProviders.