Lockheed Martin Chosen to Propel 36 Mini Satellites for Next-Gen Space Comm Network
The Space Development Agency (SDA) has granted Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) a firm-fixed price contract worth around $816 million for the manufacture of 36 Tranche 2 Transport Layer (T2TL) Beta satellites. T2TL forms a critical segment of a comprehensive initiative aimed at fortifying deterrence with more robust space infrastructures for beyond line-of-sight (BLOS) targeting, data transmission, and advanced missile detection and tracking capabilities.
The T2TL Beta variant satellites will operate in conjunction with SDA’s Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 networks. They will enhance the initial combat readiness through targeted technological improvements, mission-oriented payload configurations, and augmented integration capabilities.
“Tranche 2 will greatly boost our warfighters’ capacities and create new standards of resilience, connectivity, and orbital diversity essential for addressing emerging threats,” stated Joe Rickers, Lockheed Martin’s vice president for Protected Communications. “SDA’s distinctive procurement strategy accelerates the dissemination of this vital technology, and Lockheed Martin’s strategic alliances with a network of suppliers and small enterprises will ensure our alignment with SDA’s approach for rapid delivery.”
The T2TL Beta will comprise 72 satellites which will be launched into orbit across a series of missions commencing in 2026, undergoing a continual checkout and commissioning regimen for operational acceptance. With this contract, Lockheed Martin will provide at least 88 data communications satellites for SDA’s low-Earth orbit military constellation. The company’s 10 Tranche 0 Transport Layer (T0TL) satellites are set to launch in 2023, while its 42 Tranche 1 satellites are under production and are expected to launch in 2024.
Lockheed Martin will incorporate cutting-edge technology in its T2TL Beta satellites to facilitate the expansive global network and uphold the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture’s technological and military superiority in space through a hybrid enterprise model.
In order to deliver and innovate swiftly and efficiently, Lockheed Martin has recently inaugurated a 20,000 square-foot small satellite processing facility that is designed to assemble, integrate, and test smallsats effectively. This site, set to accommodate Lockheed Martin’s T1TL and T2TL Beta satellites, boasts six parallel assembly lines and dedicated testing chambers, enabling the production of 180 satellites or more annually to support customers’ strategic objectives.
