Wideband Gapfiller Satellites(Space)

The Wideband Gapfiller Satellites (WGS) program is a critical component of the Department of Defense's (DoD) military satellite communications (MILSATCOM) architecture, managed by the United States Space Force (USSF). The primary objective of this program is to provide high data rate, resilient, and secure communications to support U.S. and allied military operations worldwide. WGS satellites are designed to augment and eventually replace the Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) X-band service and to enhance Ka-band capabilities. This addresses the growing bandwidth demands of warfighters in various operational theaters.

The specific goals for the WGS program in recent years have focused on the procurement and development of advanced satellites, namely WGS-11 and WGS-12. These satellites are intended to significantly increase the availability and capacity of military-grade communications. WGS-11 and WGS-12 feature modern digital payloads that deliver more than 1,500 coverage beams more than all previous WGS satellites combined and provide twice the operational capacity of earlier analog satellites. The integration of these advanced payloads is aimed at ensuring robust, flexible, and high-capacity communications for dispersed military users.

For WGS-11, the program objective was to complete production and prepare the satellite for launch. WGS-11 is equipped with the Protected Tactical SATCOM (PTS) anti-jam payload, which enhances the satellite's ability to provide secure, jam-resistant communications to tactical warfighters. This payload is funded under a separate program element, but its integration into WGS-11 is a key objective for increasing the resilience of military communications in contested environments.

The WGS-12 satellite is planned as a clone of WGS-11, incorporating the same advanced digital payload and PTS anti-jam prototype. The acquisition of WGS-12 is structured as a Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract, with integration of the PTS payload scheduled for FY 2026 and launch planned for FY 2027. This approach is intended to deliver enhanced communications capabilities in a cost-effective and timely manner, supporting resilient, jam-resistant tactical communications.

International partnerships are a significant aspect of the WGS program's objectives. The program leverages funding and technical cooperation from allied nations through bilateral and multilateral Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). These agreements, managed via the State Department, enable international partners to receive constellation-wide WGS resources proportional to their financial contributions. Australia, Belgium, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, and Norway have all contributed to the procurement and enhancement of WGS satellites, supporting both ground and space segment upgrades.

The Space Systems Command (SSC) is responsible for program management, integration, and engineering support for the WGS program through FY 2026. The SSC's role includes overseeing satellite development, payload integration, and coordination with international partners to ensure the successful deployment and operation of WGS-11 and WGS-12. This management structure supports the broader goal of maintaining a resilient and interoperable MILSATCOM capability in alignment with National Space Policy objectives.

For FY 2026, no new procurement funding is requested under this line item, as the primary focus is on completing ongoing efforts for WGS-11 and WGS-12. The program's objectives for this period include finalizing payload integration, preparing for satellite launches, and continuing collaboration with international partners to maximize operational efficiency and system resilience.