
Boeing [BA] has confirmed that it is the third manufacturer to receive a development contract to build a satellite payload prototype and communications architecture for the U.S. Space Force’s Evolved Strategic SATCOM (ESS) program. They will compete with rival space systems manufacturers Northrop Grumman [NOC] and Lockheed Martin [LMT] for the full ESS system contract, which is expected to be awarded in 2025. According to Space Force specifications, the ESS military satellite system should: feature enhanced resilience and cybersecurity capabilities;…