BAE Systems to Develop New Space Force Terminals
The U.S. Space Force has awarded BAE Systems a contract to design compact, software-defined radio-frequency terminals.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Space
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BAE Systems will design and demonstrate new ultra-compact radio-frequency terminals for the U.S. Space Force. The hardware is intended to enhance communication capabilities between space-based assets and ground stations.
Why it matters
This project supports a Department of Defense initiative aimed at establishing more jam-resistant data transport across critical space infrastructure. The technology is designed to function effectively across orbital ranges from low Earth orbit to geosynchronous Earth orbit.
The new terminal design incorporates four primary engineering characteristics, including software-defined radio capabilities and an open Application Programming Interface for beam-steering. These systems undergo testing for frequency agility and crosslink acquisition timelines within simulated orbital environments.
The players
BAE Systems
This global defense, aerospace, and security company provides advanced technology and systems for military and commercial customers.
U.S. Space Force
This branch of the United States Armed Forces is responsible for space operations and protecting U.S. interests in space.
The details
The terminals utilize software-defined radios and an open Application Programming Interface to facilitate precise beam-steering. BAE Systems is preparing its production facilities to transition these prototypes into high-rate manufacturing.
Timeline
October 15, 2026: BAE Systems announced the U.S. Space Force contract award.
The Big Picture
The terminal development follows the technical requirements set by the Department of Defense's Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) initiative for resilient communication architectures. This project follows a pattern set by the initiative to ensure data integrity across multi-domain military operations.
Advancements in jam-resistant space communication technology could tangibly improve the reliability of global data networks and navigation systems used in daily life. As these terminals scale toward production, the hardware could eventually influence future standards for secure high-rate data transport across satellite constellations.
The takeaway
The development of these terminals marks a transition toward more agile, software-defined space communication systems. These technologies provide the necessary backbone for future military and commercial data networks to operate securely in contested orbital environments.
Further reading
For more on the current landscape of orbital communication technology, see United States Space.
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