Viasat has been selected as a prime contractor for the U.S. Space Force’s (USSF) Protected Tactical SATCOM-Global (PTS-G) program. This major Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, awarded by the Space Systems Command (SSC), also includes four other companies. The collective goal is to develop a resilient, proliferated constellation of small satellites in geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) to provide advanced anti-jam capabilities for government end-users, with a first launch projected for 2028.
Under an initial Delivery Order 1 (DO1), Viasat’s Defense and Advanced Technologies segment will mature the design for a dual-band satellite and ground system. This 7-month phase focuses on a sophisticated X/Ka-band satellite and the critical anchor station architecture. The work encompasses all aspects of tracking, telemetry, and command (TT&C), satellite and network operations, and stringent cybersecurity requirements. The design phase will culminate in a technical review and a demonstration of the capability.
A key feature of Viasat’s contribution is its focus on a low size, weight, and power (SWaP) GEO satellite. This design philosophy is intended to enhance end-user speeds while delivering the robust, resilient performance required for modern military operations. This secure and reliable communication technology is deemed crucial for supporting the evolving missions of the USSF and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), providing a cost-effective solution for protected tactical communications. The PTS-G program is a cornerstone of the USSF’s initiative to deploy more maneuverable and agile GEO satellites, significantly boosting the resilience of military SATCOM. This contract solidifies Viasat’s position as a potential end-to-end satellite manufacturer for critical national security space programs.
