• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to secondary sidebar
  • NEWS:
  • SatNews
  • SatMagazine
  • MilSatMagazine
  • SmallSat News
  • |     EVENTS:
  • SmallSat Symposium
  • Satellite Innovation
  • MilSat Symposium
  • SmallSat Europe

SatNews

  • LATEST
  • EXPLORE ⌄
    • Missions & Constellations
    • Business & Finance
    • Military & Defense
    • Launch
    • Software Automation & Ground Systems
    • Government & Regulation
    • Services & Applications
  • Magazines
  • Events
  • Calendar ⌄
    • IN PERSON
    • VIRTUAL
  • Subscribe

Terran Orbital selected by USSF for $237 million STEP 2.0 smallsat buses contract

May 4, 2025

Terran Orbital Corporation has been selected by the U.S. Space Force as one of 12 companies awarded a position on the Space Test Experiments Platform (STEP) 2.0 contract.

This 10-year, $237 million, Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, administered by Space Systems Command, supports the Department of Defense’s broader Space Test Program (STP) to accelerate the deployment and validation of advanced space-based technologies.

As part of STEP 2.0, Terran Orbital will compete for task orders to develop and deliver modular small satellite buses capable of hosting a wide range of experimental payloads, from new sensors to cutting-edge communications and navigation systems. These spacecraft, typically the size of a microwave or small refrigerator, serve as adaptable platforms to carry out critical technology demonstrations that will inform future military space architectures.

The STEP 2.0 contract is designed to streamline the path from concept to orbit for Department of Defense experiments by leveraging commercial space industry capabilities. The initiative also aims to reduce historic delays associated with aligning payload availability and launch opportunities by bundling multiple experiments onto standardized spacecraft and enabling frequent commercial rideshare launches.

Terran Orbital’s proven manufacturing scalability, rapid integration capabilities, and mission flexibility make it uniquely positioned to support this critical program and contribute to the modernization of U.S. military space operations.

Other companies selected for the contract include Lockheed Martin, General Atomics, Blue Canyon Technologies, Loft Orbital, Spire Global, York Space Systems, and several emerging space technology providers.

Terran Orbital is proud to be selected for the STEP 2.0 initiative and to continue our long-standing partnership with the U.S. Space Force,” said Peter Kraus, President and Chief Executive Officer of Terran Orbital. “This award underscores our commitment to advancing national security through innovative, flight-proven small satellite solutions.”

About Terran Orbital
Terran Orbital, a Lockheed Martin Company, is a leading manufacturer of satellite solutions. It provides end-to-end mission services for commercial and government customers. Terran Orbital specializes in designing, building, and operating advanced satellite systems, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to support national security, scientific research, and commercial applications.

Filed Under: Contracts & Commercial Deals, Defense Budgets & Procurement Tagged With: Featured

Primary Sidebar

Coverage

  • Missions & Constellations
  • Business & Finance
  • Military & Defense
  • Launch
  • Software Automation & Ground Systems
  • Government & Regulation
  • Services & Applications

Most Read Stories

  • Proximus Global + Starlink to expand Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity in Europe
  • FCC Opens Review for SpaceX’s 15,000-Satellite VLEO Constellation
  • Congress desires LEO, but threats are real
  • Rohde & Schwarz acquires stake in Orbint GmbH for signal intelligence + reconnaissance from space
  • USSF Awards Initial 'Golden Dome' Prototype Contracts, Signaling Strategic Shift to Space-Based Defense

About Satnews

  • Contacts
  • History

Archives

Secondary Sidebar

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
x
Sign up Now (For Free)
Access daily or weekly satellite news updates covering all aspects of the commercial and military satellite industry.
Invalid email address
Notify Me Regarding ( At least one ):
We value your privacy and will not sell or share your email or other information with any other company. You may also unsubscribe at anytime.

Click Here to see our full privacy policy.
Thanks for subscribing!