Northrop Grumman [NOC] has delivered the first of two protected communications payloads for the Air Force’s Enhanced Polar System (EPS), according to a company statement.
EPS will provide continuous coverage in the north polar region for secure, jam-resistant, strategic and tactical military communications. The extremely high frequency (EHF) payload leverages protected communications technologies Northrop Grumman developed for the Air Force’s Advanced EHF (AEHF) satellite payloads on a smaller scale to meet reduced mission requirements for EHF.
EPS consists of two EHF payloads hosted on classified satellites, a gateway to connect modified Navy Multiband Terminals (NMT) to other communications systems and a control and planning segment. The first payload delivered will become part of an overall EPS network planned to replace Interim Polar System currently on orbit and serve as a polar adjunct to AEHF.
Northrop Grumman spokesman Bob Bishop said recently the company delivered the first payload during the fourth quarter of 2012. Bishop declined to say when the second payload would be delivered. Payload development began in 2008.
The Air Force plans initial operational capability for EPS in 2018.