Jane Edwards 
- Space Systems Command has tapped BAE for a data layer effort
- The terminals will use BAE’s software-defined radios
- The 2027 Defense R&D Summit will explore space technologies, AI and more
BAE Systems has received a U.S. Space Force contract to design and demonstrate radio frequency terminals for a space-based data layer.
Resilient, secure connectivity across orbits has become a growing focus for the Space Force and its industry partners. Defense officials and industry executives will examine this and other priorities at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2027 Defense R&D Summit on Feb. 4, exploring advanced space technologies, unmanned systems, 5G and future-generation wireless capabilities, trusted AI and autonomy, quantum computing, and more. Save your seat now to hear directly from the leaders shaping the future of warfare.
The company said Thursday it will use its existing line of software-defined radios to develop ultra-compact RF terminals under the contract with Space Systems Command.
What Will BAE Deliver Under the Contract?
BAE will work with government partners to advance rapid deployment and use an application programming interface in tech demonstration efforts. The company is also preparing the system for scalable production to meet future defense needs.
The terminals will be built to withstand jamming, electromagnetic interference, and space radiation, carry military-grade security, and support operations in low Earth orbit and geosynchronous Earth orbit.
Joe Dziezynski, product line director for space systems at BAE Systems, said the award draws on the company’s decades of experience building radiation-hardened hardware and communications systems.
“Our resilient design and established manufacturing capacity will enable rapid deployment and scalable production, supporting the Space Force’s vital mission to enhance global security,” Dziezynski added.
What Other Space Programs Is BAE Supporting?
The latest Space Force contract builds on other work BAE is performing for the service. In July, BAE and Trimble each received Space Force agreements to help build the Maritime and Aviation Receiver Card, or MAVRC, a next-generation military GPS receiver. Space Systems Command issued the awards on behalf of its Electronic Systems Directorate.
In May, the company delivered key payload components for the Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared Polar program, supporting payload assembly for Flight Unit 1, which is scheduled to launch in 2028. In March, the 10-satellite Missile Warning and Tracking Epoch 2 constellation that BAE is developing for the Space Force cleared preliminary design review and moved toward critical design review.
BAE has expanded its broader space portfolio as well. In June, the company validated its Endura system-on-chip space processor in natural space and high-radiation environments. In April, BAE added the Ascent spacecraft to its Elevation product line to support space defense and exploration missions.
