This multi-award contract entrusts Viasat with the responsibility of prototyping, testing, and integrating systems, hardware, software, and cybersecurity solutions. These efforts aim to provide integrated, multi-domain capabilities for the USAF. Viasat's team is set to accelerate the technology integration process, spanning an initial five-year term with the option to extend for up to five additional years.
The modern USAF is rapidly evolving, constantly developing new systems, software, and hardware to keep pace with industry innovation. The AFLCMC/XA, responsible for architecture and integration, collaborates with industry leaders like Viasat to transition these technologies swiftly to operational forces. This contract is designed to enable the USAF to rapidly access a broad range of industry solutions, facilitating the expedited availability of integrated technology for its personnel.
Viasat, with its extensive 35-year history in satellite, networking, and cybersecurity, has been selected across all three categories under the contract. These include 'Development Planning,' focusing on rapid technology transition from laboratory to operational use; 'Systems Development,' integrating and testing emerging systems, hardware, and software in operational environments; and 'Synthetic Environment Development,' which involves creating advanced models and simulations, or digital twins, for operational assessments.
Susan Miller, President of Viasat Government, emphasized the importance of this partnership: "Resilient communications and communications security are critical for military operations, and the USAF has been clear they need to move technology from development to at-scale operational use quicker than ever. This award provides the means to work directly with the Air Force research, development, and operational communities to transition a huge range of developments, which can all ultimately help deliver mission success."
This contract marks one of the first major DoD IDIQ contracts for Viasat following its acquisition of Inmarsat in May 2023. This acquisition significantly enhanced Viasat's capabilities, expanding its satellite fleet to 18 with an additional 10 satellites under development. The company's commitment to resilient communications is further underscored by its comprehensive range of capabilities, including proven satellite services across Ka-band, S-band, and L-band networks.
The IDIQ contract format, known for its flexibility and efficiency, allows the USAF to access and integrate a wide array of technologies as needed. Viasat's role in this process is pivotal, providing a bridge between rapid technological advancements and their practical, operational applications within the USAF. This partnership is a testament to the evolving landscape of defense technology and the increasing reliance on private sector innovation to bolster national security capabilities.
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