DoD
Iridium lands seven-year, $738.5 million Defense Department contract
Iridium said Sept. 16 that the new seven-year, $738.5 million contract ensures continuity for voice, data, broadcast and other services to Defense Department and associated users.
Senate defense appropriators support DoD space request, propose ‘tactical responsive launch’ program
The SAC-D fully funded the $1.2 billion request for the National Security Space Launch program.
Esper affirms support for U.S. Space Command and for an independent Space Force
Esper: 'I’m excited for tomorrow’s activation of the United States Space Command.'
DoD acquisitions chief: Pentagon unlikely to change Air Force launch procurement strategy
Ellen Lord, undersecretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment, said DoD supports Air Force plans for Phase 2 Launch Service Procurement.
Inhofe credits SASC for moving thousands of Pentagon nominations, expects more in September
In September, SASC plans to consider additional DoD civilian and military nominations.
DoD reports higher costs for National Security Space Launch program
NSSL costs over the entire life of the program increased 7.2% — from $57.2 billion to $61.3 billion.
In Senate hearing, Hyten denies accusations of sexual misconduct, receives powerful endorsements
SASC Chairman Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) said the committee conducted its own probe and concluded the allegations were “unproven.”
Defense nominee Mark Esper calls on Congress to provide ‘necessary resources’ to stand up Space Force
Esper told the SASC that, if confirmed, he intends to get involved in the Space Force legislative debate.
Trump nominates Esper, Spencer temporarily takes over as Pentagon chief
Secretary of the Navy Richard Spencer became the third acting secretary of defense since Jim Mattis resigned.
Joint Chiefs nominee backs Senate’s piecemeal approach to establish Space Force
Gen. Mark Milley said he fully supports the establishment of a Space Force and rejects the criticism that the new branch is just an “added layer of bureaucracy.”
Space in transition as DoD leaders depart in quick succession
In the coming weeks, the Defense Department, the Air Force and the Army will have new secretaries.
Wilson: New acting Pentagon chief Esper a ‘good choice’
DoD sources said Esper is likely to continue to advocate for space investments.
Top general says large constellations of satellites in low orbit could address key needs
Gen. Paul Selva: Military forces in the field need “ubiquitous communications”
Shanahan out as SecDef nominee, Esper named acting secretary
Shanahan “has decided not to go forward with his confirmation process so that he can devote more time to his family,” President Trump tweeted.
House appropriators deny Space Force funding, call on DoD to study alternatives
The HAC notes that the decision to not back the $72 million request should not be read as a complete rejection of the idea of establishing a Space Force.
Thornberry bill would help venture-backed startups compete for DoD small business awards
Thornberry is proposing legislation that would make it easier for startups like Capella Space to continue to get private funding and compete for DoD small business awards.
