Illustration of Spainsat's next-generation communications satellites that will offer military satcom services via U.S. satellite operator XTAR. Credit: Airbus

WASHINGTON — XTAR, a satellite operator specializing in military communications, is preparing for a fleet transition that could expand its role in the U.S. and allied defense markets. The Virginia-based company is shifting from its two legacy X-band satellites to next-generation spacecraft funded by its minority shareholder, Spain’s Hisdesat Servicios Estratégicos.

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Sandra Erwin writes about military space programs, policy, technology and the industry that supports this sector. She has covered the military, the Pentagon, Congress and the defense industry for nearly two decades as editor of NDIA’s National Defense...