This network of ground stations will enable Canada's Department of National Defence to access the Wideband Global Satellite Communications System, providing rapid and secure communications for the Canadian Armed Forces.
OTTAWA, Ontario, Canada – Nov. 13, 2014 – General Dynamics Canada has been awarded two contracts on the Mercury Global Project. The first contract is for the design-and-build a network of Mercury Global anchor stations valued at $59.1 million. Through this network of antennas, the Department of National Defence will access the Wideband Global Satellite (WGS) constellation and will be able to provide high speed secure communications for deployed Canadian Forces around the globe. The second contract provides ongoing in-service support and is valued at $8.5 million.
The Mercury Global project is the name given to Canada’s participation in, and leverage of, the WGS system. WGS will provide high-capacity, assured and secure satellite access for communications that are vital to the Government of Canada.
“The sophisticated sensors and information technologies used by modern militaries require access to high-bandwidth communication channels” says David Ibbetson, vice president, General Dynamics C4 Systems International. “We look forward to providing this secure and reliable communication channel and building on our extensive communications experience. Providing this critical capability to our Canadian Armed Forces helps ensure mission success and the safe return home of our troops.”
Under the contract, General Dynamics Canada is responsible for the construction and installation of seven anchor stations across Canada. The anchor station antennas will be manufactured by General Dynamics C4 Systems SATCOM Technologies. Under the support contract, General Dynamics Canada will provide in-service support for up to 17 years, including 24×7 monitoring, helpdesk, mission planning, Field Service Representation, repair and overhaul, and engineering support.
Through the Mercury Global program, General Dynamics Canada will facilitate the transfer of specialized WGS satellite communications knowledge and technology to Canada. Such transfer will stimulate Canadian industry in the field of satellite communications and support the creation of Canadian high-technology jobs in the future.
General Dynamics Canada and General Dynamics C4 Systems SATCOM Technologies are part of General Dynamics C4 Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD). For information about General Dynamics Canada, please go to www.gdcanada.com.
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