Space Force Awards Contracts to Blue Origin, CACI, General Atomics, and Viasat for Next-Gen Space Communication Terminals

Insider Brief:

• The United States Space Force’s Space Systems Command has awarded contracts to Blue Origin, CACI International Inc., General Atomics, and Viasat to develop space laser communication terminal prototypes.
• These contracts represent the first phase of the $100 million Enterprise Space Terminal (EST) program.
• Space Systems Command continues to lead efforts in advancing space technology, managing a $15.6 billion budget dedicated to acquiring and delivering cutting-edge capabilities.

The United States Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC) has awarded contracts to Blue Origin, CACI International Inc., General Atomics, and Viasat to develop space laser communication terminal prototypes. This marks the first phase of the $100 million Enterprise Space Terminal (EST) program, an initiative to enhance space communication infrastructure.

The EST program, part of SSC’s Space Domain Awareness and Combat Power Program, aims to create a standardized long-range space optical communication terminal. These terminals will enable crosslink compatibility among future space systems, supporting a resilient and diverse space mesh network.

The awarded contracts leverage prior investments by both the Department of Defense and commercial entities. The program will develop a new enterprise waveform that supports communication beyond low Earth orbit. John Kirkemo, senior materiel leader at SSC, noted the importance of these terminals, stating that they will enable diverse communication paths crucial for national security.

These contracts were awarded through the Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC), an initiative designed to foster collaboration between military and commercial space sectors. Col. Bryon McClain, program executive officer for SSC Space Domain Awareness and Combat Power, highlighted SpEC’s role in driving innovation and reducing costs through competition.

Space Systems Command continues to lead efforts in advancing space technology, managing a $15.6 billion budget dedicated to acquiring and delivering cutting-edge capabilities. SSC hopes to accelerate innovation and ensure the U.S. maintains its strategic advantage in space by partnering with diverse commercial entities.

Image source: General Atomics