Space Force picks CACI to upgrade satellite control nets with phased-array antennas and other improvements

Summary points:

• CACI won $10 million order from the U.S. Space Force to enhance the Satellite Control Network, bringing the total contract value to $392.6 million.
• The upgrade introduces modern phased-array antennas that can track several satellites simultaneously to improve reliability and cut maintenance costs.
• The project will help increase satellite traffic and orbital warfare missions.

PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. – U.S. Space Force satellite control experts needed enabling technologies to upgrade the aging ground station network that manages satellite communications. They found a solution from CACI Inc.-FEDERAL in Chantilly, Va.

Officials of the Space Systems Command at Peterson Space Force Base, Colo., announced a $10 million order to CACI on Friday for the Phased Array Project for the Satellite Control Network. The modification brings the value of the contract to $392.6 million.

The Phased Array Project for the Satellite Control Network (SCN) is a U.S. Space Force initiative to upgrade the ground station network that manages satellite communications.

Electronic beam steering

CACI is developing and deploying new phased-array antennas, which can steer beams electronically and connect with several satellites simultaneously, which is different from conventional parabolic antennas that track one satellite at a time.

Modern phased-array antennas support increasing satellite traffic and demanding mission requirements -- particularly for orbital warfare capabilities. The phased array technology avoids moving parts to reduce maintenance costs and improve reliability compared to traditional dish antennas.

On this order, CACI will do the work in Colorado Springs, Colo., and should be finished by January 2027. For more information contact CACI online at www.caci.com, or Space Systems Command at www.ssc.spaceforce.mil.