Boeing to Develop Strategic Satellite Communication System for U.S. Space Force

The United States Space Force has signed a $2.8 billion contract with Boeing to develop an advanced satellite communications system that will support its strategic missions in the coming years. The agreement marks a significant step in building the U.S. defense architecture in space and is intended to ensure reliable and secure communications even under advanced threat conditions.

According to a report by Defense News, Boeing won the bid over Northrop Grumman after both companies developed prototypes for communication satellites. Kay Sears, Boeing’s Vice President for Space, Intelligence, and Weapons Systems, explained that “the U.S. needs a national strategic system that provides high protection and military response capabilities, which are not possible without a reliable communications network.” He added that the new system Boeing will develop is designed to counter growing threats in the space environment and will include innovative technologies to maintain communication continuity even in cases of disruption.

Under current plans, the communications system is expected to become operational by 2033. The Space Force intends to use the satellites as part of its core programs, including STARCOM and ESS, which focus on strategic space communications. In addition, a dedicated communication satellite is planned to serve the Arctic region in the far north, where environmental conditions make it difficult to maintain stable communication links.

The new project will involve developing a family of communication satellites designed to withstand jamming and signal interference attempts. The report notes that U.S. Air Force systems will also be integrated into the projects to provide broader protection for military operations against similar threats.

Furthermore, the United States is considering involving international partners in the initiative. In the past, countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and Luxembourg participated in SATCOM military satellite communications programs. The current intention is to expand cooperation with U.S. allies to establish a global communication network that will serve all allied forces in the air and space domains.