US Space Force increases efforts to plug training capabilities gaps
The service has been seeking simulation and emulation solutions capable of reproducing multiple in-orbit threats.
The framework agreement to support MoD IT could be worth as much as US$1.5 billion. (Photo: Jacobs)
US company Jacobs has been awarded a contract to provide the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) with cyber-security solutions under a Digital and IT Professional Services (DIPS) framework agreement which could be worth as much as US$1.5 billion (£1.2 billion).
Under the deal, Jacobs and suppliers will provide maintenance, design and support of secure system architecture, cryptographic systems and security, including testing and evaluation of technical and non-technical security features for the MoD.
Under the DIPS framework Lot 3 – Cyber Security, Crypto, Sec Ops and Integrated Systems – Jacobs will provide deep technical delivery capabilities, strategic insight and thought leadership that will attempt to aid the MOD deliver on complex digital and information technology programmes.
The DIPS framework, procured with assistance from the Crown Commercial Service (CCS), will run until November 2027 and aim to deliver a range of digital and IT specialist professional services to Defence Digital.
According to Jacobs: “CCS is designed to supports the public sector in achieving maximum commercial value when procuring common goods and services.”
The service has been seeking simulation and emulation solutions capable of reproducing multiple in-orbit threats.
The service has been conducting several acquisition and upgrading efforts involving artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve communication, data analysis and ISR systems.
The Syracuse 4B communications satellite, developed by Airbus and Thales Alenia Space, was launched last year, bolstering secure military satellite communications for the French Armed Forces. Thales has now been selected to provide terminals for vehicles.
The growing importance of space in modern warfare, advancements in satellite technology, and increasing threats from rivals like China and Russia were among the topics of a Eurosatory 2024 panel on military space operations.
AN/ARC-232A is a Starfire radio that provides VHF/UHF communications to airborne platforms and the transceiver is software-programmable, allowing for multiple waveform support as well as optional national electronic counter counter-measure (ECCM) capability.
During the 18-month period of the contract, Lockheed Martin will apply Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques to create surrogate models of aircraft, sensors, electronic warfare and weapons within dynamic and operationally representative environments.