Lockheed Martin, Northrup Grumman win Warfighter Space T2TL constellation contracts

Author: EIS Release Date: Aug 30, 2023

The U.S. Space Development Agency (SDA) has awarded contracts totalling $1.5 billion to build and operate its Tranche 2 Transport Layer (T2TL) constellation, consisting of 72 satellites.

 

Lockheed Martin, Northrup Grumman win Warfighter Space T2TL constellation contracts

 

The space craft will be providing global communications and “deliver persistent global encrypted connectivity to support missions”, for example beyond line of sight targeting, missile warnings, and tracking of advance missile threats.

 

Prototype

The two “prototype agreements” are with Lockheed Martin (an agreement with a total value of approximately $816m) and Northrop Grumman (approximately $733m). The awards are for the “Beta variant prototype constellation”, to be precise , which will form the foundation of Tranche 2 of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA).

 

 

The firm-fixed priced Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreements will see both companies build and operate 36 T2TL – Beta prototype constellation satellites – in three orbital planes of 12 satellites each. The first plane is due to be ready for launch by September 2026.

 

 

“We are now solidly in the procurement phase for Tranche 2 of the PWSA to support a 2026 delivery,” explained Derek Tournear, SDA director. “Tranche 2 brings global persistence for all our capabilities in Tranche 1 and adds advanced tactical data links and future proliferated missions. The Beta variant of the Tranche 2 Transport Layer vehicles are similar to Tranche 1 Transport Layer vehicles while also integrating advanced tactical communication technology demonstrated by the Tranche 1 Development and Experimentation System (T1DES).”

 

The PWSA Transport Layer will provide multi-band global communications access for warfighter missions. The Transport Layer will be the space backbone for the Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) infrastructure with low-latency data transport, sensor-to-shooter connectivity, and tactical satellite communication (TACSATCOM) direct to platform, says the SDA.

 

LEO architecture

“Creating a low-Earth orbit communications architecture that meets the needs of the warfighter is complex,” said Blake Bullock, vice president, communication systems, Northrop Grumman. “With Northrop Grumman’s extensive military satellite communication experience and deep mission understanding, we are helping SDA make its vision a reality.”

 

For its part, Lockheed Martin – via Joe Rickers, its vp for Protected Communications – said:

 

“Tranche 2 will significantly enhance our warfighters’ capabilities and establish new levels of resiliency, connectivity, and orbital diversity that are necessary for countering future threats. SDA’s unique acquisition approach expedites the proliferation of this critical technology, and Lockheed Martin’s strategic partnerships with a network of suppliers and small businesses will ensure we’re aligned with SDA’s strategy for accelerated delivery.”