ViaSat Inc has been chosen by Northrop Grumman Corporation as a key partner in the delivery of a next-generation satellite communications (SATCOM) network to the Australian Defence Force.
Under the Joint Project 2008 Phase 5B2 programme, which is a large multiphase project to deploy an integrated wideband SATCOM system for the ADF, ViaSat will provide its ground stations and dual-band Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) satellite earth terminals.
The WGS constellation is a vital military asset providing Australia, the United States, Canada, Denmark, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and New Zealand with reliable and secure communications services worldwide 24-hours a day, seven days a week.
Colin Cooper, General Manager, Government and Defence, ViaSat Australia, commented: “Since 2012, ViaSat has been working as the prime contractor for the nbn satellite service ground system, which is a very similar system to that required by the ADF.
“We have significant experience delivering large-scale satellite ground stations in remote regions of Australia. Our long history of operations in Australia also allows ViaSat to provide technical support, in-country spares and logistics, training, operations support, help desk services and maintenance over the life of the program.”
Under the 5B2 Program, prime contractor Northrop Grumman will work with ViaSat to deliver a satellite ground station at Kapooka Military Area, Wagga Wagga in New South Wales and a wideband SATCOM network management system to support home station and deployed forces.
Ian Irving, Chief Executive, Northrop Grumman Australia said: “In working with ViaSat and others on the 5B2 Program, we will provide the ADF a comprehensive, mature, proven solution for taking full advantage of Australia’s investment in the WGS system with expandability to meet future needs.”
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5B2 Program ADF Northrop Grumman SATCOM ViaSat Inc
Post written by: Matt Brown
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