SpaceX’s Starlink leads the SATCOM sector, securing most task orders under the Space Force’s growing PLEO Satellite-Based Services program. The program’s budget is expanding from $900 million to $13 billion, sparking concerns over limited competition. Rivals like Amazon and Telesat are developing alternatives, with Telesat promoting its Lightspeed constellation for defense use. Officials stress the importance of a diversified industrial base to reduce dependency on one provider. The rapid expansion highlights Starlink’s critical role in modern military communications.
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