The U.S. Space Force has selected Astranis Space Technologies, alongside Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Intelsat General Communications, and Viasat, for Phase I of the Protected Tactical Satcom-Global (PTS-G) program. This initiative, which holds a potential ceiling value of up to $4 billion, aims to develop and deploy resilient, anti-jam satellite communications for military operations worldwide. The initial contracts for this phase total approximately $37.5 million across the five companies, focusing on design and demonstration over a six-month period.
John Gedmark, CEO of Astranis, announced the company's selection as a prime contractor via tweet, stating, > "We've been selected for Phase I of Protected Tactical Satcom-Global, an up to $4 billion program to launch small geo comms satellites on an aggressively fast timeline. That is what we do best. Game on." This highlights Astranis's specialization in small, geostationary (GEO) communication satellites and its commitment to rapid deployment.
The PTS-G program signifies a strategic shift in the Space Force's acquisition approach, emphasizing the integration of commercial designs to accelerate the delivery of advanced capabilities to warfighters. This move aims to enhance global, integrated, and resilient SATCOM, complementing existing wideband systems and addressing emerging threats in contested environments. The program is part of a broader effort known as the Protected Tactical SATCOM Family of Systems, with a goal of achieving initial operational capability by 2028.
Astranis, a San Francisco-based startup, is recognized for its MicroGEO satellites, which offer cost-effective and rapidly deployable alternatives to traditional, larger satellites. Its inclusion alongside established defense contractors like Boeing and Northrop Grumman underscores the Space Force's intent to leverage innovation from both traditional and emerging commercial space companies. This competitive landscape is expected to drive down costs and accelerate the development of critical anti-jam communication solutions for the Department of Defense.