Optus wins $19.5m Defence satellite contract

Optus has won an $19.5 million extension on its managed satellite services contract with the Department of Defence.

The new deal will see Optus continue to provide capacity over its Optus C1 satellite for the department until mid-2018. Optus will also provide command and control and professional satellite support services.

Optus launched the Ku-band Optus C1 satellite in 2003, in partnership with the Australian Defence Forces.

The satellite was jointly funded by Optus and the Department of Defence. Optus has been providing capacity over the craft to the department since launch.

“Signing this contract extends Defence’s long and strong relationship with Optus in delivering satellite communications services,” Air Commodore Nick Barneveld, CIOG acting head of ICT operations, said.

“Our people will continue to work together to ensure our military forces can stay connected and informed as they operate across Australia’s vast distances and beyond.”

Optus currently has five satellites in operation. The company recently won the contract to operate and manage NBN Co’s two dedicated broadband satellites, which are scheduled to launch in 2015.

Pictured: A render of the Optus C1 satellite.