The U.S. Space Force is set to collaborate with commercial companies operating in geostationary orbit for satellite services, including communications and navigation.

Col. Richard Kniseley from Space Systems Command’s Commercial Space Office announced plans for a vendor pool named Maneuverable GEO, aiming to onboard innovative capabilities by next year.

This indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract will enable various Defense Department agencies to procure satellite services.

The initiative is modeled after last year’s Proliferated Low Earth Orbit Satellite-Based Services program, which initially selected around 15 providers for a contract potentially worth up to $900 million over five years.

With increasing demand for satellite services from higher altitudes, the Space Force is particularly interested in maneuverable satellites that can provide services from different positions in geostationary orbit, as reported by Defense News.

The Space Force recently awarded Starfish Space a $37.5 million contract to demonstrate satellite maneuverability, which Kniseley believes could significantly enhance military capabilities and responsiveness during conflicts.

Written by Emily Begley