Satellite and Terminals

The MILSTAR (Military Strategic and Tactical Relay) Satellite and Terminals program is a Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP) focused on satellite communications infrastructure and associated ground terminals. Operating under the Major Capability Acquisition pathway, this program represents a significant Department of Defense investment in space-based communications capabilities, encompassing both satellite systems and their supporting terrestrial components.

Contract awards under this program range from small purchase orders for electronic components and repair services (typically $3,000-$75,000) to large-scale definitive contracts exceeding $300 million for satellite operations and logistics sustainment. Major contractors include Lockheed Martin Corporation, Boeing Satellite Systems, and Northrop Grumman Defense, with significant work performed in California (El Segundo, San Jose) and Virginia. The contracts predominantly utilize Firm Fixed Price and Cost Plus Fixed Fee/Award Fee structures, with performance periods spanning from several months to multiple years. Notable procurements include the MILSTAR/DSCS Orbital Operations & Logistics Sustainment Support contract valued at $490 million and various commercial acquisition studies ranging from $200,000 to $2.1 million. The program rarely employs small business set-asides, with most contracts being unrestricted. Primary funding appears to flow through Space and Missile Systems Center (SMC) contracting offices.