Lyntris Takes On Payloads for U.S. PTS-G Program with a $4 Billion Ceiling

Intelsat General Communications, an SES Space & Defense company, has selected Lyntris to serve as the prime payload integrator for the U.S. Space Force's PTS-G program, according to a report by TMCnet.

The project will deliver payload RF architecture, precision pointing systems, and antenna technologies, with integration being performed in Longmont, Colorado. The PTS-G program aims to provide U.S. forces with protected satellite communications against jamming and interception.

Space Systems Command structured the PTS-G program as an IDIQ multiple-award contract with a $4 billion ceiling, meaning awarded companies compete for individual task orders under it rather than receiving a fixed sum at once.

This award comes amid a growing wave of defense contracts for satellite and payload companies, as the U.S. military moves to develop jam-resistant space communication networks and distribute tasks among multiple contractors to reduce reliance on a single supplier.

What do these terms mean?

IDIQ: An indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract where quantity and value are not fixed at signing; it sets a ceiling and issues actual orders incrementally as needed, with awardees competing for task orders within it.

Payload (RF Payload): The portion of the satellite responsible for receiving and transmitting signals, including antennas and amplifiers, which determines communication quality and capacity.

Precision Pointing: The satellite's ability to stabilize its antennas and direct them toward a specific target with high accuracy, essential for protected communications and narrow spot beams.

Protected Communications: Communication systems designed to remain operational against jamming, interception, and breach, used in sensitive military operations.