Australia Cancels Satellite Contract with Lockheed Martin
Will Prioritize Multi-Orbit Capability Going Forward
The Australian Ministry of Defense has canceled a satellite procurement contract with Lockheed Martin, citing the evolving nature of the space domain.
“Defense has decided to cease its current procurement activity with Lockheed Martin Australia for a single orbit GEO-based satellite communications system.”
Official Government Statement
In a statement released to the media, the Australian MoD said that, "as outlined in the 2024 National Defense Strategy, Defense requires space capabilities that enhance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, provide resilient communications and counter emerging space threats. The Integrated Investment Program included $9-$12 billion to invest in enhanced space capabilities.
"In 2021, Defense went out to tender for a Defense owned and operated Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite communications system. With the acceleration in space technologies and evolving threats in space since the project’s commencement, Defense has assessed that a single orbit GEO-based satellite communications system would not meet strategic priorities.
"As such, Defense has decided to cease its current procurement activity with Lockheed Martin Australia for a single orbit GEO-based satellite communications system. Lockheed Martin Australia continues to be a highly valued industry partner, supporting Defense’s requirements for contemporary and future capability demands.
"Instead of a single orbit solution, Defense must instead prioritize a multi-orbit capability increasing resilience for the Australian Defense Force.
"Defense’s current satellite communications capabilities support the immediate needs of the organization. This decision allows Defense to prioritize emerging needs, mitigate capability gaps and continue to support our transition to an integrated, focused force."