US Space Force Initiates $8 Billion Procurement for Next-Gen Communication Satellites

The US Space Force has begun the procurement process to acquire the next-generation of communication satellites; which are crucial to the nation's nuclear command, control, and communications network.

The Evolved Strategic Satcom (ESS), is poised to enhance and eventually supplant the existing Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) satellite constellation.

The new system is primed to deliver indispensable jam-resistant communication channels for the National Command Authorities and deployed forces globally, including in the challenging North Polar region, a capability currently absent in the incumbent system.

The Space Systems Command issued a pre-solicitation on April 5, signaling the imminent release of a final request for proposals for the ESS satellites. Notably, the ground systems and user terminals are slated for acquisition through separate procurements.

The Space Force's objective is to commence production by 2025 and deploy a new constellation by 2030.

The envisioned ESS constellation will comprise at least four interconnected satellites operating in geosynchronous and highly elliptical orbits.

Industry giants Boeing and Northrop Grumman have emerged as leading contenders for the lucrative ESS contract. Both companies have diligently pursued ESS development since 2020 under government contracts. Despite their prior involvement, the Space Systems Command has underscored that the production phase will be characterized by an open competition, ensuring a level playing field for all qualified competitors.

Northrop Grumman has affirmed its readiness for the challenge, citing the successful culmination of a capstone technology demonstration in December for its ESS prototype.

"We are in the final stages of incorporating lessons learned from the rapid prototype into our ESS production proposal, which we will deliver this year." - Northrop Grumman Spokesperson

Boeing has also been actively engaged in advancing its ESS prototype, leveraging satellite bus and payload technologies honed through various military and commercial programs.

The chosen contractor for the ESS project will operate under a cost-plus or cost-reimbursement contract structure.

Unlike fixed-price contracts, this approach acknowledges the inherent design uncertainties inherent in such complex programs. It commits the government to compensate contractors for allowable expenses, along with an agreed profit margin, thereby fostering collaboration and mitigating risk throughout the procurement process.

As the Space Force charts a course toward bolstering the nation's space-based communication capabilities, the ESS procurement represents a pivotal milestone in ensuring the resilience and efficacy of the nuclear command, control, and communications network.