Boeing has secured a $2.8 billion contract to develop satellites for the United States Space Force under a program aimed at supporting secure military communications, the company and the U.S. government said on Wednesday.
The contract includes two satellites, with options for two more in the future. The satellites will support the Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) mission and provide initial operational capability for strategic warfighters, according to the Space Systems Command.
Boeing is expected to deliver the first of the two space vehicles by 2031. Once deployed in geostationary orbit about 35,700 kilometers above Earth, the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications (ESS) system will offer continuous global coverage.
The satellites are part of a refreshed NC3 architecture designed to ensure that military leaders can maintain communication even during disruptions or attacks.
Cordell DeLaPena of the U.S. Space Force said the new system must provide protection, power, and reliable communication at all times. He said expanding U.S. space capabilities is important to maintain security and deterrence.
