The US Space Force is making a significant change in its approach to geostationary surveillance. Instead of relying solely on specialized military satellites, it's switching to systems built and operated by commercial vendors. This move, spearheaded by Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy, the Space Force’s top acquisition official, aims to enhance supplier diversity and tap into the private sector's advanced capabilities.
The Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP), currently using bespoke military satellites, will be replaced. Purdy emphasized the new strategy’s dual benefits: introducing commercial solutions to a critical military function and fostering new entrants into national security space. GSSAP satellites, operating near-geosynchronous orbit (around 22,000 miles above Earth), monitor other satellites, including crucial missile warning and communications assets.
Initially, concerns existed regarding the classified nature of the mission and whether commercial vendors could meet all military specifications. However, compromises were reached, leading to a plan involving multiple commercial vendors building, launching, and operating surveillance satellites. Notably, the new program will be unclassified and available via the Pentagon’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. "The best part of this that I’m really happy about is this program will be unclassified and it will be FMS accessible,” Purdy stated.
This shift is a major undertaking, requiring adjustments to established military acquisition processes. Purdy highlighted the positive impact on space startups and non-traditional vendors, stating it represents a significant step towards bridging the gap between research and defense procurement. He also mentioned exploring commercial solutions to upgrade the aging Satellite Control Network (SCN), potentially using a dual-track approach with traditional procurement as a backup.