In a groundbreaking move, the U.S. Space Force has awarded Boeing a monumental $439.6 million contract to construct the 12th Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) communications satellite. This significant development underscores Boeing’s pivotal role in advancing secure and resilient communication capabilities for the U.S. military and its allies.
The WGS constellation stands as a beacon of innovation and reliability, delivering vital high-capacity communications capabilities even in the face of contested jamming environments. Designed to provide high-data-rate tactical communications, the Protected Wideband Satellite boasts responsive, steerable beams capable of ensuring connectivity via the Protected Tactical Enterprise Service (PTES) ground system. This ground-breaking technology, coupled with enhanced anti-jam communications, fortifies the U.S. military’s communication network, ensuring seamless operations in the most challenging of circumstances.
What sets the WGS-12 satellite apart is its integration of cutting-edge advancements, including the revolutionary Protected Tactical Satcom Prototype payload. This payload, equipped with anti-jam capability, further enhances the satellite’s resilience, providing a crucial asset for U.S. warfighters and allies operating in multiple contested theaters. With over 1,500 individually steerable, shapeable beams in the Ka band, the WGS-12 satellite offers unmatched tactical communications capabilities, empowering military forces with resilient and reliable communication channels.
Michelle Parker, Vice President of Space Mission Systems at Boeing, expressed pride in the company’s mission partnership and reiterated Boeing’s commitment to delivering critical communication solutions to the warfighter. She highlighted the role of the WGS-12 satellite in providing resilient communications, building upon the success of its predecessor, WGS-11. Leveraging advanced techniques such as additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and agile development, Boeing continues to push the boundaries of system performance, ensuring that the WGS constellation remains at the forefront of secure communication technology.
Boeing’s dedication to innovation and excellence is evident in every aspect of the WGS-12 satellite’s design and construction. From its robust anti-jam capabilities to its agile and responsive communication beams, the WGS-12 satellite embodies Boeing’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions to meet the evolving needs of the U.S. military and its allies.
As Boeing embarks on the construction of the WGS-12 satellite at its El Segundo, California facility, the company remains steadfast in its mission to provide unparalleled communication capabilities to support the defense and security of the nation. With each satellite launch, Boeing plans to reinforce its position as a leader in space technology, driving innovation and safeguarding critical communication infrastructure for generations to come.