Telesat eyes defense role with laser comms test ahead of LEO debut

WASHINGTON — As it prepares to launch the first satellites for its Lightspeed low Earth orbit constellation, Telesat is sharpening its pitch to U. S. Defense customers with a planned laser communications demonstration and changes to its system design aimed at military compatibility.

The Canadian satellite operator is positioning Lightspeed as a high-capacity data transport layer for defense networks, capable of moving large volumes of information with low latency while reducing exposure to jamming or interception. The effort includes adding military Ka-band frequencies — aligned with the Pentagon's existing wideband satcom systems — and testing optical inter-satellite links under a NASA contract.

Chuck Cynamon, president of Telesat Government Solutions, said the company's upcoming demonstration will be a key proof point as the Pentagon and U. S. Space Force look for ways to move data rapidly across global networks.