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
-
![July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough]()
July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
-
![July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop]()
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
-
![Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)]()
Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.
-
![US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist]()
US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist
The USAF is looking for commercial avionics solutions to improve the T-38 Talon’s reliability, readiness and flight safety as continued T-7A Red Hawk delays increase the likelihood that the legacy trainer will remain in service longer than planned.
-
![British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty]()
British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty
The UK’s choice of the Tekever AR5 for Project Corvus reflects a wider shift in military drone procurement towards solutions that centre on sovereignty and domestic production, moving away from overseas reliance.
