U.S. Space Force Awards p-LEO Contract to Artel
Company Partnering with Rivada Space Networks
The U.S. Space Force has awarded a Commercial Satellite Communications Proliferated Low Earth Orbit (p-LEO) contract to Virginia-based Artel LLC, which is partnering with Rivada Space Networks on the project.
"The Rivada constellation brings a new level of security, performance and global reach that will enable our customers to not only expand their current networks but also address new market opportunities."
Ed Spitler, Artel
Artel is already using first generation LEO constellations to deliver secure government communications, and the company will now work with Rivada to ensure the latest innovation in secure space architecture is available for mission critical connectivity on a global scale.
Rivada's global low-latency point-to-point connectivity network of 600 low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, the "OuterNET", is a unique next-generation architecture combing inter-satellite laser links with advanced onboard processing that provide unique routing and switching capabilities to create an optical mesh network in space. This approach to "orbital networking," in which data stays in space from origin to destination, creates an ultra-secure satellite network with pole-to-pole coverage, offering end-to-end latencies much lower than terrestrial fiber over similar long distances. And by routing traffic on a physically separated network, it provides a layer of defense for any organization that needs to securely share data over a large distribution of site. Together it provides unique solutions for Government Services operations. The first satellite launch is set for 2025, with global service starting in 2026.
"We are committed to delivering state-of-the-art technology solutions to the US Government", said Ed Spitler, Head of Satcoms Programs at Artel. "The Rivada constellation brings a new level of security, performance and global reach that will enable our customers to not only expand their current networks but also address new market opportunities. We are excited to partner with Rivada to provide the next generation of secure connectivity."
"We are delighted to be working with Artel and honored to be one of a limited number of LEO solutions trusted to provide solutions to the USSF," said Declan Ganley, CEO, Rivada Space Networks. "By allowing satellites to go beyond their traditional role of "gap-filler," and unlike other limited LEO systems which bridge the last mile between the satellite and the nearest gateway, Rivada's OuterNET is a fully interconnected space network which will become the technology of choice for secure data communications. Rivada's OuterNET will solve essential connectivity and security challenges for government communications globally.”