Lockheed Martin’s Newest Technology Demo for Space Connectivity Is Ready for Launch
December 10, 2024 | Lockheed MartinEstimated reading time: 1 minute

Lockheed Martin’s newest technology demonstration, called the Tactical Satellite (TacSat), is complete and ready for launch in 2025 aboard a Firefly Aerospace Alpha rocket.
TacSat is an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance spacecraft with a mission to prove specialized sensing and communications capabilities on orbit. The satellite will participate in exercises next year that highlight cross-domain kill-web connectivity, enabling timely execution of tactical space missions.
“This area of focus is especially important to the future of space as it becomes a more contested environment,” said Paul Koether, director of tactical space at Lockheed Martin. “We’re thrilled to be one step closer to displaying game-changing communications and sensing in the ultimate high ground.”
What’s On Board?
In an increasingly complex battlespace, infrared sensing can be a decisive edge providing more complete situational awareness for allied forces.
TacSat will host a proven Lockheed Martin infrared sensor on board that brings previously developed technology to space for the first time. This sensor produces high quality imagery and it can interface with federated Battle Management Command & Control (BMC2) combat systems to provide joint forces with a comprehensive view of threats.
The satellite will also feature Lockheed Martin’s first 5G.MIL® payload on orbit. This provides cellular-like networking for military space assets, making satellite constellations more resilient. It also helps enable seamless connectivity with tools in the air, at sea and on land.
The power of proliferated connection and influx of actionable data this technology brings will strengthen our customers’ ability to stay ahead of threats on the horizon.
The Bigger Picture
Space-enhanced Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control (CJADC2) will enable the global connection of our nation and allies’ military assets. Once operational on orbit, TacSat will be available for customer exercises, including learning endeavors related to Find, Fix, Track, Target, Engage, Assess (F2T2EA) missions.
Having successfully completed rigorous environmental testing earlier this summer, TacSat has completed its final checkouts at Lockheed Martin’s Littleton, Colorado, campus. Next up on its road to launch, the satellite will ship out to its launch site in California for final processing ahead of liftoff in 2025.
Testimonial
"In a year when every marketing dollar mattered, I chose to keep I-Connect007 in our 2025 plan. Their commitment to high-quality, insightful content aligns with Koh Young’s values and helps readers navigate a changing industry. "
Brent Fischthal - Koh YoungSuggested Items
Lockheed Martin Continues to Support Philippine Air Force with Delivery of Five More Black Hawk® Helicopters
08/19/2025 | Lockheed MartinLockheed Martin announced the delivery of five new Black Hawk® helicopters to the Philippine Air Force. This milestone contributes to the ongoing modernization of the country’s defense capabilities and reinforces its position as a key member of the global fleet of Black Hawk operators.
Poland Finalizes Agreement to Modernize F-16 Fleet
08/15/2025 | Lockheed MartinThe Polish Ministry of National Defence has finalized a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) with the U.S. government to modernize its fleet of 48 F-16 Block 52+ aircraft to the advanced F-16 Viper configuration, also known as the F-16V.
Lockheed Martin Announces New Industrial Collaboration Project for Philippines' Multi Role Fighter Program
08/12/2025 | Lockheed MartinLockheed Martin is expanding its industrial collaboration package for the Philippines as part of its F-16 Block 70 solution for the country's Multi Role Fighter program.
First Next-Gen GEO-Based Missile Warning Satellite Successfully Completes Environmental Testing, On Track for Delivery to Space Force
08/08/2025 | Lockheed MartinThe first of a new, more capable, more survivable missile warning satellite, designed by Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) for today’s highly contested space domain, has successfully completed environmental testing.
European Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System Launcher Proves Capability with First-Ever Firing
08/04/2025 | Lockheed MartinLockheed Martin and Rheinmetall, partners in the Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System (GMARS) program, successfully conducted the first live fire of the GMARS launcher, demonstrating its capability to launch GMLRS rockets.