USAF selects Hughes’ satellite communications solutions
A communications pod installed in a KC-46 Pegasus marks the progression of the development of ABMS. (Image: US Air Force)
Hughes to offer satellite networking solutions as part of a USAF contract to support the development of the ABMS.
Hughes Network Systems has been awarded one of several prime positions on an IDIQ contract to support the USAF’s Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS).
The contract has a ceiling value of $950,000,000.
Hughes will offer flexible satellite communications solutions that leverage open systems design, modern software and algorithm development.
These solutions will enable ABMS, as part of the broader Joint All Domain Command and Control effort, to deliver information accessibility to the warfighter.
The contract is part of a broader security effort to provide development and operation of systems as a unified force across domains and enable capabilities through multiple integrated platforms.
The ABMS has been developed to replace the E-8 JSTARS ground surveillance capability and is expected to come into service by the mid-to-late 2020s.
Initial field tests of the ABMS began in December 2019 and were deemed a success, although further tests were delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recently, in May 2021, the USAF announced that the programme had met key benchmarks and was being progressed to the next stage of its development.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Windracers highlights UK drone momentum]()
Eurosatory 2026: Windracers highlights UK drone momentum
Windracers is using Eurosatory 2026 to showcase its ULTRA autonomous cargo aircraft following its selection for a major UK support package for Ukraine and growing government backing for drone operations.
-
![India’s AMCA fifth-gen fighter roadmap firms up with private sector push]()
India’s AMCA fifth-gen fighter roadmap firms up with private sector push
As a major shortfall in Indian fighter jet capability looms, New Delhi is looking to spread risk and accelerate delivery of its fifth-generation combat aircraft.
-
![USAF plans major CCA expansion with new suppliers and billions in funding]()
USAF plans major CCA expansion with new suppliers and billions in funding
US Air Force leaders say open architecture and broader industry participation will help deliver affordable autonomous wingmen capable of overwhelming future adversaries.
-
![Airbus unveils expansion of uncrewed portfolio with new CCA and helicopter platforms]()
Airbus unveils expansion of uncrewed portfolio with new CCA and helicopter platforms
The manufacturer is betting heavily on the demand for uncrewed systems, revealing the uncrewed H145M – known as the U145 – and the U760 Ravenstorm at ILA Berlin 2026 as the two latest additions to its expanding UAV offering.
-
![Upgrades and fresh orders reinforce demand for Dassault’s Rafale fighter jet (updated 2026)]()
Upgrades and fresh orders reinforce demand for Dassault’s Rafale fighter jet (updated 2026)
The French-made aircraft is lining up potentially huge orders in Asia, with the latest F5 platform designed to keep the jet relevant in the modern battlespace until the 2040s.
