The US Space Force has awarded AeroVironment a contract to deliver two BADGER phased array antenna systems for the Satellite Communication Augmentation Resource (SCAR) program.
Managed by the Space Rapid Capabilities Office, the SCAR initiative aims to enhance the service’s satellite command, control, and communication capabilities, enabling faster and more resilient operations.
Under the agreement, the first BADGER unit is scheduled for delivery in the coming months, with additional units expected to follow to support the SCAR program’s operational requirements.
The contract has been established under an Other Transaction Agreement, a flexible government mechanism outside traditional acquisition rules that accelerates procurement while ensuring system readiness.
BADGER, short for Broad Area Deployable Ground terminal enabling Resilient communication, is a portable satellite antenna that can be quickly set up almost anywhere.
It allows military operators to track satellites, transmit and receive signals reliably, and maintain communications, even in challenging or congested space environments.
Scaling Production and Supply Chain
AeroVironment said that it has preserved future production options for additional SCAR systems and expanded key supplier agreements to reinforce the supply chain and maintain timelines.
Meanwhile, more BADGER units are nearing completion and are expected for early 2026 delivery to support full-scale overseas deployment.
A Mission Support Container, which houses the electronics and software that control the BADGER units, was delivered ahead of schedule this summer and is ready for final integration testing.
“We are delivering unmatched technological superiority to usher in a new era of advanced satellite command and control,” said Wahid Nawabi, chairman, CEO, and president at AeroVironment.
“With confidence in the technology and a steadfast commitment to delivering this critical national security priority, our team is scaling BADGER production to match the operational tempo demanded by the Space Force.”
BlueHalo, which AeroVironment acquired in May 2025, secured a $1.4-billion contract in 2022 to support the implementation of the SCAR program.
The company demonstrated its BADGER antenna system in 2023 and showcased a related backend satellite mission service operation in 2024.
