The United State Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC) awarded a $2.8B contract to The Boeing Company to build and deliver the first two satellites of the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications (SATCOM) [ESS] program. ESS replaces the Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) capability currently provided by the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (EHF) system, modernizing this crucial element of the nation’s strategic capabilities with advanced technologies and approaches that more efficiently and effectively meet the needs of our warfighters against threats. With options for two additional satellites, this delivery will support Initial Operational Capability and is the first step in a phased approach to rapidly proliferate a diverse satellite constellation.

The ESS program, part of SSC’s Military Communications and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Program Executive Office, will provide the primary strategic SATCOM capability for NC3 users worldwide, enabling joint nuclear warfighters to deliver capabilities across the full spectrum of military operations from peacetime through conflict. With a resilient architecture, ESS will ensure America’s modernized nuclear triad functions as a deterrent capability in the face of both conventional and nuclear threats.  ESS will also continue Advanced EHF’s legacy of partnering with key international allies to deliver peace through strength through integrated deterrence. 

This effort builds on the accomplishments of individual contracts under the Middle Tier of Acquisition (MTA) Rapid Prototyping acquisition efforts that were awarded to Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and The Boeing Company in 2020. During this phase, SSC drove defense innovation, leveraged competition, matured mission requirements, and reduced performance risk to critical technology elements in high-risk areas. This culminated in the achievement of compliant preliminary segment designs and end-to-end prototype demonstrations, significantly advancing the modernization of the NC3 enterprise.

“Today’s award culminates nearly five years of industry competition and Government partnership to show the Space Force’s readiness to spearhead the modernization of the NC3 enterprise with the development and production of the ESS weapon system,” explained Col A.J. Ashby, Program Director for ESS. “The result for our Nation will be the delivery of resilient space-based capabilities that will command and control our nuclear forces through all operational environments, critical functions necessary for enduring nuclear deterrence.”The ESS system of systems is composed of Cryptographic, Ground, and Space Segments procured by the Space Force and a User Terminal Segment procured by the individual Services. The first four satellites will be delivered under a cost-reimbursement contract. As part of the larger $12B ESS Space Segment acquisition, additional satellites are planned to be procured through fixed price contract actions that may be awarded as sole source to support Full Operational Capability and attain global coverage, including enhanced Arctic capability.

ESS is threat-driven and risk-informed in order to evolve faster than adversaries can adapt. The ESS program uses agile acquisition approaches across all of its segments, including targeted MTA prototyping activities, Other Transaction Authorities, and the Software Acquisition Pathway, to put capability in the hands of warfighters faster while saving taxpayer dollars. With this contract award, ESS is poised to deliver resilient NC3 satellites at a fraction of the cost and time of legacy programs.

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