Along with four new portfolio acquisition executives announced Tuesday, the Space Force is in the process of establishing three additional organizations, according to Tom Ainsworth.

Optical comms networks offer some advantages over RF networks, experts say.

Developed under SDA's Tranche 1 Demonstration and Experimentation System (T1DES) program, the platform will test tactical satellite communication capabilities on orbit.

The upcoming pilots will focus on satellite communications, small launch providers and tactical surveillance, reconnaissance and tracking.

Two defense officials recently briefed DefenseScoop regarding what they refer to as “shipboard Navy Starlink efforts.” 

The Air Force Research Lab's DEUCSI program will develop and experimentally test satellite communication systems capable of operating with multiple commercial space internet constellations.

In an RFI, the Army expressed interest in recent commercial demonstrations over the last three years for LEO constellation capabilities.

The Army's network office could be experimenting with more as a service models in the future where they make sense.

The Army wants contractors to help bring forth new technologies to enable units to communicate on the go.

The move will allow the Pentagon and other federal agencies — as well as international partners — to “procure fully managed satellite-based services and capabilities for all…