- Viasat and Intelsat General Communications have secured a combined $437.7 million contract from the U.S. Air Force
- The companies will develop and deliver spacecraft for the PTS-G program
- The effort will support the Air Force’s push for resilient satellite communications in contested environments
The U.S. Space Force has awarded Viasat and Intelsat General Communications, now part of SES following its acquisition of Intelsat, a combined $437.7 million contract to provide space vehicles for the Protected Tactical Satellite-Global, or PTS-G, program.
The Air Force’s Protected Tactical Satellite-Global program highlights the need for secure communications in future space operations. Learn how leaders are approaching space modernization and mission readiness at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Air and Space Summit on July 30. Sign up now.
What Is the Scope of the Contracts?
The Department of War said Friday the firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contracts cover the development and delivery of space vehicles in support of the PTS-G program. The work will include design activities and demonstration support and will be carried out at the companies’ respective facilities through March 19, 2029.
The awards were issued through a competitive fair opportunity acquisition process that drew five offers. The Space Systems Command at Los Angeles Air Force Base in California serves as the contracting activity.
At the time of the award, the Air Force obligated $150 million in fiscal 2026 research, development, test and evaluation funds. Additional funding will be allocated through individual delivery orders as they are issued.
What Is the PTS-G Program?
PTS-G is a Space Force initiative aimed at delivering resilient, secure satellite communications for tactical forces operating in contested environments. The program is designed to maintain reliable connectivity under hostile conditions through the use of the Protected Tactical Waveform and other advanced anti-jamming capabilities. Aside from Viasat and Intelsat General Communications, the Space Force awarded Astranis Space Technologies, Boeing and Northrop Grumman spots on the PTS-G contract.
