The Department of Defense (DoD) Space Test Program (STP) plays a pivotal role in advancing the United States' military space capabilities by facilitating the development, testing, and integration of innovative space technologies. Through strategic contract awards, the STP collaborates with various industry partners to enhance the nation's defense infrastructure. This article provides an overview of recent satellite contract awards under the DoD Space Test Program, highlighting key initiatives and their implications for national security.
Overview of the DoD Space Test Program
The DoD Space Test Program is a critical component of the U.S. Space Force's efforts to validate and integrate emerging space technologies. By partnering with commercial and defense industry leaders, the STP ensures that the U.S. military maintains a technological edge in space operations. The program encompasses a wide range of activities, including satellite development, launch services, and operational testing, all aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and resilience of military space assets.
Recent Satellite Contract Awards
In recent years, the DoD has awarded several significant contracts to advance satellite capabilities under the Space Test Program. These initiatives underscore the commitment to leveraging commercial innovation to bolster national defense.
Space Test Experiments Platform (STEP) 2.0 Contract
In May 2025, the U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command (SSC) announced the Space Test Experiments Platform (STEP) 2.0 contract, a 10-year, multi-award Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with a $237 million ceiling. This initiative aims to procure full lifecycle solutions for Science & Technology experiments, enhancing spacecraft procurement within the STP. Twelve companies were selected to participate in this contract, reflecting a strategic move to integrate diverse commercial capabilities into military space operations. ([ssc.spaceforce.mil](
National Space Test and Training Complex (NSTTC) Contract
In July 2026, the U.S. Space Force awarded 15 companies positions on a $981 million IDIQ contract to support the National Space Test and Training Complex. This contract focuses on developing test and range capabilities, including the integration of space-based systems such as satellites, payloads, and sensors, as well as ground systems like command-and-control architectures and tracking infrastructure. The initiative aims to enhance the U.S. military's ability to validate emerging space capabilities before operational deployment. ([govconwire.com](
Protected Tactical Satellite-Global (PTS-G) Program
In May 2026, Viasat and Intelsat General Communications secured a combined $437.7 million contract from the U.S. Air Force to provide space vehicles for the Protected Tactical Satellite-Global (PTS-G) program. This program is designed to deliver resilient, secure satellite communications for tactical forces operating in contested environments. The awarded companies are responsible for developing and delivering spacecraft that support the Air Force's push for secure communications in future space operations. ([govconwire.com](
Space-Based Airborne Moving Target Indication (SB-AMTI) Program
In August 2026, the U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command awarded $615 million in Other Transaction Authority contracts for the SB-AMTI program to Rocket Lab, STR LLC, and an unnamed company. Rocket Lab's portion of the contract, valued at $397 million, involves the development, launch, and operation of multiple "Flatellites"—flat-design satellites optimized for large constellations with space-based sensors and low latency, high bandwidth communication links. These satellites are intended to enhance the Joint Force's ability to operate in contested airspace by providing real-time tracking of airborne threats. ([satellitetoday.com](
Implications for National Security
These contract awards signify a strategic effort by the DoD to integrate advanced commercial technologies into military space operations. By collaborating with industry leaders, the DoD aims to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative solutions that enhance the resilience and effectiveness of U.S. military space assets. The focus on secure communications, advanced sensing capabilities, and comprehensive testing and training infrastructures reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing the evolving challenges in space operations.
Conclusion
The DoD Space Test Program's recent satellite contract awards illustrate a concerted effort to bolster the United States' military space capabilities through strategic partnerships with commercial and defense industry leaders. These initiatives are crucial for maintaining a technological edge in space operations, ensuring that the U.S. military can effectively address emerging threats and challenges in the increasingly contested domain of space.