Viasat, a prominent player in satellite communications, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing the inaugural satellite broadband upgrade aboard a vessel within the esteemed Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet. This accomplishment marks the commencement of a transformative endeavor, with Viasat poised to modernize a total of 105 vessels within the next year.
The initiative stems from a substantial $578 million contract initially secured by Inmarsat in 2022, prior to its acquisition by Viasat, a key competitor in the satellite communications domain. Tasked with overhauling the satellite network infrastructure, Viasat is spearheading the transition from Ku-band to its cutting-edge Global Xpress Ka-band and the ELERA L-band systems across the MSC fleet.
The MSC, a vital component of the U.S. Navy’s logistical framework, boasts a formidable fleet comprising approximately 125 civilian-operated ships. Charged with the crucial mission of facilitating ocean transportation for the Department of Defense, these vessels play a pivotal role in replenishing Navy fleets, transporting military personnel and equipment, and strategically positioning cargo across the globe.
Steve Gizinski, the adept managing director of Viasat Government Services and former head of Inmarsat Government Services, highlighted the comprehensive nature of the endeavor, emphasizing Viasat’s commitment to delivering a fully managed service to the Military Sealift Command. Leveraging the superior capabilities of Ka-band as the primary broadband conduit, supplemented by the reliability of L-band service in regions where Ka-band signals may be inaccessible, Viasat ensures seamless connectivity and enhanced operational efficiency for MSC vessels navigating diverse global environments.
The upgraded broadband architecture necessitates the deployment of two distinct terminals—a state-of-the-art Ka-band terminal sourced from Cobham and an internally developed L-band terminal crafted by Viasat. This dual-band network infrastructure underscores Viasat’s dedication to providing robust and resilient connectivity solutions tailored to meet the exacting demands of maritime operations.
The MSC contract, spanning a decade and valued at $578 million, encompasses a spectrum of responsibilities ranging from broadband enhancement initiatives to the maintenance and operation of critical communication infrastructure, teleports, and terrestrial services. This holistic approach underscores Viasat’s steadfast commitment to fortifying the MSC’s operational capabilities and reinforcing its position as a trusted partner in advancing maritime communication technologies.
