Christine Thropp
Inmarsat‘s government business arm has received a potential five-year, $410 million blanket purchase agreement from the Defense Information Systems Agency to provide the U.S. Army Blue Force Tracker network services.
Inmarsat Elera-powered, L-band satellite communications will be used to enable connectivity between BFT platforms and satellite earth stations, the company said Monday.
The new work builds on Inmarsat Government’s years-long satcom support to operational BFT devices, which equips military commanders and forces with location information for situational awareness.
L-band power and bandwidth leases, Internet service and super high frequency satellite connectivity are some of the services covered by Inmarsat Government’s contract.
“The BFT mission requires support around the world for the Global Network and end-user devices,” said Inmarsat Government CEO Susan Miller. “Our partnership allows for critical situational awareness and Command and Control for deployed personnel – whether on the ground, in a vehicle or in the air.”
The BPA has a one-year base period and four one-year options that if exercised will bring the award to its ceiling value.
