Northrop Grumman developed a Protected Tactical Satcom Prototype payload for the Space Force's PTS-P program. Credit: Northrop Grumman
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Space Force awarded Northrop Grumman a $398 million contract to build a prototype communications satellite intended to demonstrate anti-jamming technologies for military operations in contested environments, the Space Systems Command said May 15.
The contract supports the program known as Enhanced Protected Tactical Satellite Communications-Prototype, or Enhanced PTS-P, part of a broader effort to develop more resilient satellite communications systems capable of operating under electronic warfare and cyber attack conditions.
The satellite is scheduled to launch no earlier than 2030, according to the Space Systems Command.
Northrop Grumman designed the spacecraft using its ESPAStar-HP satellite bus, a platform designed for national security and commercial missions.
