Arthur McMiler
Viasat will provide U.S. government cloud data centers with a next-generation Ethernet data encryptor, or EDE, under a sole-source, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The company said Wednesday that the contract is a multi-year, multimillion dollar award, but did not disclose its exact amount.
The contract calls for Viasat to design and develop a high-assurance, high-speed EDE that meets government security standards for classified data protection up to Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information levels. Contract work also includes certifying and sustaining the EDE’s capability to meet evolving security specifications and cloud communication requirements.
The next-gen EDE’s development will build upon the capabilities of Viasat’s first-generation KG-142 encryptor used for protecting cloud and transport data networks since 2017. In February 2021, the encryptor met the National Security Agency’s Ethernet Data Encryptor Cryptographic Interoperability Specification standard that certifies the device’s ability to secure top secret and sensitive compartmentalized information.
Improvements on Encryptor Bandwidth, Power Use
The company said the new encryptor will be developed with 16 times more bandwidth and an estimated 60 percent power savings compared to current EDE products.
David Schmolke, Viasat vice president of mission connections and cybersecurity, conveyed pride in the company receiving the contract award that he said underscores its “proven heritage and innovative approach” to meet cloud data center requirements.
“Our next generation EDE is designed to meet customers’ increased AI-driven demands for bandwidth while providing the flexibility to operate their data centers with cutting edge automation and responsiveness,” Schmolke remarked.
