Shifting Focus to Prototypes After Program Reset

The U.S. Space Force is accelerating the development of protected tactical satellite communication (satcom) capabilities through enhanced prototypes, following the cancellation of a larger acquisition program in the previous year. This strategic shift underscores the service’s commitment to modernizing its wideband, anti-jam satcom infrastructure.

Milnet: A Constellation in the Making

The Space Force is collaborating with SpaceX to establish ‘Milnet,’ a new satcom network projected to eventually host nearly 500 spacecraft. This initiative aims to integrate into a broader U.S. Military communications architecture, enhancing resilience and security.

Five Vendors Selected for Protected Satcom Designs

In July 2025, the Space Force selected five companies – Astranis, Boeing, Intelsat, Northrop Grumman, and Viasat – to develop new space-based protected tactical satcom capabilities. These companies are engaged in building prototypes under firm, fixed-price, indefinite-delivery contracts.

Countering Threats with Meadowlands

The service recently received the first production unit of the Meadowlands Counter Communications System (CCS), a compact and mobile anti-satellite jamming system developed by L3Harris Technologies. Testing, including recent exercises with Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, has validated its effectiveness in disrupting satellite communications.

New Protected Tactical Waveform Demonstrated

The Space Force has successfully demonstrated a new protected tactical waveform, signaling progress in securing communications against interference and jamming. This advancement is crucial for maintaining reliable connectivity in contested environments.

Future Trends in Protected Satcom

Resilience Through Diversity

The trend towards multiple vendors and diverse technologies, as evidenced by the five companies selected for prototype development, highlights the Space Force’s strategy to enhance resilience. Relying on a single provider creates vulnerabilities; a diversified approach mitigates risk.

Integration of Commercial Capabilities

The partnership with SpaceX and the inclusion of companies like Intelsat demonstrate a growing willingness to integrate commercial satellite capabilities into military communications. This leverages existing infrastructure and accelerates deployment.

Advancements in Anti-Jamming Technology

Systems like Meadowlands and the new protected tactical waveform represent ongoing investment in technologies designed to counter increasingly sophisticated jamming threats. Expect further innovation in this area, including the development of more agile and adaptive waveforms.

FAQ

What is Milnet?

Milnet is a new satellite communications network being developed by the U.S. Space Force in partnership with SpaceX, intended to host nearly 500 spacecraft.

Who are the vendors working on protected satcom designs?

Astranis, Boeing, Intelsat, Northrop Grumman, and Viasat have been selected to develop new space-based protected tactical satcom capabilities.

What is the Meadowlands system?

Meadowlands is a compact, mobile counter-communications system designed to disrupt satellite communications, developed by L3Harris Technologies.