The Satellite Control Network provides satellite command and control capabilities for U.S. military and other government satellites. The system includes a network of 19 globally distributed parabolic antennas spread across seven locations around the world. The SCN supports tracking, telemetry, and commanding functions, ensuring that satellites remain in the proper orbit and are performing as designed. These functions are accomplished through the network of ground stations, ground antennas, and communication links between the control centers, antennas, and satellites, strategically located around the world.
The SCN is currently operating at high utilization rates while facing increasing demand. To address this, the Space Force is pursuing a range of modernization and augmentation efforts. In 2022, the Space RCO awarded BlueHalo a $1.4 billion contract for a program called the Satellite Communications Augmentation Resource, which was meant to augment as many as 12 SCN parabolic satellite dishes with electronic phased array antennas that would be able to talk to up to 20 satellites at a time rather than one. In March 2026, however, the Space Force opted to cancel the contract and instead launch a new competition that leverages commercial systems rather than one with a bespoke, military design. Delivery of all 12 dishes is expected between late 2026-2030.
In July 2024, the Space Force awarded Akima's subsidiary Five Rivers Analytics a $480 million 10-year contract to support the Satellite Control Network and help integrate new technologies into the system as they emerge. The Space Force is also exploring working with other federal agencies through Federal Augmentation Services (FAS) program to upgrade and utilize existing civil ground system infrastructure to support the SCN. The Satellite Control Network is operated by Space Delta 6’s 21st, 22nd, and 23rd Space Operations Squadrons (SOPS). The 22nd SOPS functions as the primary interface with SCN users, including scheduling satellite contacts. The 21st and 23rd SOPS execute operations and maintenance of SCN antenna systems and tracking stations in the western and eastern hemispheres, respectively.
Satellite Control Network Technical Data
Contractors: Lockheed Aircraft Corp. (developed as part of the WS-117L program); Philco Corp. (subcontractor to Lockheed and then prime for the development of the remote tracking stations, Akima; (Five Rivers Analytics) (sustainment and modernization); BlueHalo (SCAR development).
Operator/Location: Mission Delta 6, CFC Schriever SFB, Colo. • Vandenberg Tracking Station (VTS) - Vandenberg SFB, Calif. (alternate control center), 21st SOP. • Hawaii Tracking Station (HTS), Kaena Pt., Hawaii, 21st SOP. • Guam Tracking Station (GTS), Andersen AFB, Guam, 21st SOP. • Diego Garcia Station (DGS), Diego Garcia Island, 21st SOP. • Colorado Tracking Station (CTS), Schriever SFB, Colo. (primary control center), 22nd SOP. • Pituffik Tracking Station (PTS), Pituffik SB, Greenland, 23rd SOP • Telemetry & Command Squadron (TCS), Oakhanger, U.K., 23st SOP • New Hampshire Tracking Station (NHS), New Boston SFS, N.H., 23rd SOP
IOC: 1959.
Active Systems: 19 parabolic antennas and two command posts at eight worldwide locations.