Defence has signed a $180 million contract to continue provision of secure ultra-high frequency (UHF) satellite communications for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and coalition partners for at least eight years.

The contract with Intelsat (now a subsidiary of SES) will extend the operational life of the IS-22 satellite and its hosted UHF payload until at least 2033, with options to extend further if possible.

This gives Defence the ability to relocate the satellite and provides logistics, training and operational support to ensure ADF personnel stay connected across land, air and sea.

The contract will also establish a new Australian-based antenna facility, strengthening sovereign control, boosting local industry and ensuring the longevity of this essential communications capability.

Construction of the facility is expected to start in 2026.

Assistant Secretary Space Systems Branch Michael Hunt said the contract strengthened both national security and local jobs.

“This agreement not only ensures the ADF maintain access to secure UHF satellite communications and remain interoperable with coalition partners, but supports Australian jobs and strengthens sovereign control of critical communications capability,” Mr Hunt said.

Launched in 2012, the IS-22 satellite provides secure, uninterrupted communications that allow Defence personnel to coordinate, respond and support a range of efforts in remote and challenging environments.

“By extending the operational life of IS-22, we can continue to provide secure and reliable communications for our ADF personnel,” Mr Hunt said.