Space Systems Command’s (SSC) Enhanced Polar System-Recapitalization (EPS-R) recently completed Factory Confidence Tests (FCT) on both the first and second payloads in March and April of 2024, respectively.
The completion of this test signifies that each payload meets all technical requirements and is ready for shipment to Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, to support the program’s launch window in mid-July. The EPS-R mission addresses the National Defense Strategy’s integrated deterrence through its partnership with American allies and will provide secure communication for North Polar users.
EPS-R consists of two Extremely High Frequency (EHF) tactical MILSATCOM payloads, as well as an upgraded Control and Planning Segment – Recapitalization (CAPS-R) ground system. Developed by Northrop Grumman, the program boasts the first ever operational DoD payloads to be hosted on an allied satellite. The two host space vehicles, as well as launch services, are commercially procured by Space Norway’s Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission (ASBM). In addition to EPS-R, the GEOStar-3 spacecrafts will host payloads for the Norwegian military (X-band) and commercial SATCOM provider Viasat (Ka-band).
“The purpose of this test is to ensure the payload’s readiness for shipment to the launch site,” said U.S Space Force Capt. Dale Hartley, EPS-R deputy branch chief. “This includes verifying payload state of health as well as hardware and software configurations. Accomplishing this is a huge milestone for us and a testament to months of hard work and coordination from the U.S. Space Force, Space Norway, and Northrop Grumman.”