Boeing (BA) just secured a $2.2 billion deal with the U.S. Space Force to build two next-generation satellites, the first under its Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications (ESS) program.
The ESS system will eventually replace the current Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) infrastructure provided by the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (EHF) satellites.
That’s one of the most critical pieces of the military’s communications network.
According to Space Force, Boeing’s new satellites will help “modernize this crucial element of the nation's strategic capabilities,” using advanced tech designed to meet the demands of today’s threat landscape.
The deal also includes an option to build two additional satellites.
“It’s a critical time to advance U.S. space capabilities to ensure peace through strength,” said Cordell DeLaPena, Space Force’s Program Executive Officer for Military Communications.
He emphasized the need for “protection, power, and always-available capability even through adversary attempts to interrupt our connectivity.”
Boeing’s comeback story
Space Force, established during President Trump’s first term in 2019, works alongside the Air Force to defend America’s growing interests in orbit.
The ESS satellites are expected to deliver improved capacity, flexibility, and resilience compared to the existing EHF network. Boeing has already been working with the Space Force on this mission since 2020, under a rapid prototyping and risk-reduction contract.
“The U.S. needs a strategic national security architecture that works without fail,” said Kay Sears, VP and general manager of Boeing Space, Intelligence and Weapon Systems. “We designed an innovative system to provide guaranteed communication to address an evolving threat environment in space.”
The win adds momentum to Boeing’s comeback story.
After years of setbacks — including two fatal 737 MAX crashes and a Department of Justice criminal case tied to the incidents — the company has started clawing back both public and investor confidence.
Boeing has also become a geopolitical lever for President Trump.
During his May trip to the Middle East, Qatar Airways inked a blockbuster deal for 210 Boeing jets, which many saw as brokered by the White House.
Wall Street has welcomed the news. In June, Bernstein named Boeing its top aerospace pick, calling it a “momentum stock” and reiterating its “Outperform” rating.
Boeing stock is up 28.5% year-to-date and 23.7% over the past 12 months.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are markedmarked