Evolved Strategic SATCOM Space Segment Rapid Prototype

The Evolved Strategic SATCOM Space Segment Rapid Prototype (ESS Space Segment RP) is a Middle Tier Rapid Prototyping acquisition program managed by the Department of the Air Force Space Command Space and Missile Systems Center. The program focuses on developing next-generation strategic satellite communications capabilities, with emphasis on secure, survivable, and jam-resistant communications. This major defense program encompasses both space and ground segments, including satellite payload development, hardware and software systems, and associated ground communication architectures.

Contract awards under this program range from approximately $1 million to $608 million, with performance periods typically spanning 6 to 48 months. Major prime contractors include Boeing, Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, L3 Technologies, Raytheon, and Kratos Technology & Training Solutions. Notable subcontractors across multiple awards include BAE Systems, Honeywell, and various specialized technology firms. The majority of contracts are firm-fixed price definitive contracts with no set-aside designations. Primary places of performance include Sunnyvale, California, and Camden, New Jersey. The contracts encompass prototype development, advanced research efforts for architectural design, technology readiness assessments, and ground communication capabilities. The Space and Missile Systems Center serves as the primary contracting authority across all awards.