The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded Babcock a six-year, 400-million-pound ($480 million) contract to manage and operate its Skynet military satellite communications system.
Babcock will execute the Skynet Service Delivery Wrap, operating the UK military’s satellites and ground stations while also integrating new user terminals.
Skynet 6
In service since the 1960s, the UK’s Skynet constellation of satellites provides a battlefield information advantage to the country and its allies.
The first satellite of the sixth Skynet generation, Skynet 6A, is set to be launched in 2025.
Babcock’s six-year contract — part of the UK’s overall 6-billion pound ($7.23 billion) Skynet 6 program — will support current Skynet infrastructure and “the successful transition and continuous delivery of service for future Skynet operations.”
SATCOM, Intelligence Until 2041
The program will provide satellite communications and intelligence until at least 2041.
“Space is increasingly important for maintaining battlefield advantage,” Defence Procurement Minister Alex Chalk said.
“The UK’s next generation military satellite communications system will keep us at the forefront of this critical domain and the work under this contract will bolster our resilience for years to come.”
Babcock CEO David Lockwood said the company is “delighted to have been chosen to support this world-leading technological safeguard.”
“Skynet enables vital communications to the UK armed forces wherever they are, helping to keep them safe.”