DoD Experiments With Satellite Communications Providers

The Bottom Line Upfront

The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is experimenting with various satellite communications providers to enhance the resilience of the defense network.

The Breakdown

• This interest has been sparked by Russia's actions in Ukraine, and DISA is particularly interested in proliferated low-Earth orbit (PLEO) satellite communications, such as Starlink and Amazon's Project Kuiper, due to their cost-effectiveness and ability to provide multiple communication paths simultaneously.
  
• DISA's exploration of PLEO satellite communications highlights the need for a resilient and redundant network for the Department of Defense (DOD).
• While PLEO satellites offer potential benefits, securely connecting them to DOD's networks poses challenges.
  
• DISA is seeking to integrate PLEO satellites into DOD's network to enhance security and redundancy.
• However, connecting these constellations securely is not straightforward due to the existing barriers in place to protect DOD's networks from the internet. DISA is currently experimenting with Starlink, Amazon, and the Navy to find ways to embed PLEO into DOD's network.