(MCLEAN, VA – February 17, 2009) – Satellite solutions provider AMERICOM Government Services (AGS) announced the U.S. Navy has accepted the in-motion satellite terminal installed on board the Seventh Fleet Command ship, the USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19).
The USS Blue Ridge is now connected into the Defense Intelligence Agency’s VSAT Network (DIVN), which provides the Commander of the Seventh Fleet with super broadband connectivity to enable voice, VTC and data capabilities as well as connection to coalition networks, existing Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications Systems (JWICS) and intelligence and secret networks.
During acceptance testing, a head-to-head comparison was made between the new system and the ship’s existing JWICS satellite connected system. The DIA’s DIVN system with the AGS installed antenna provided download speeds five times faster than the existing shipboard system.
David Jackson, Chief Operating Officer of AMERICOM Government Services, stated, “The installation of the DIA’s DIVN system has increased the USS Blue Ridge total capability by nearly 500 percent and significantly improved their capability for intelligence connectivity and command and control to the Seventh Fleet Commander and Staff.”
The installation of the DIVN onto the Navy’s vessel came as a result of operational successes from the land-based intelligence satellite terminals provided by AGS.
Tip Osterthaler, President & CEO of AGS, noted, “The DIVN network was previously comprised solely of land-based systems. The USS Blue Ridge is the first ship-borne endeavor and we are proud to be part of this enhanced capability.”
About AMERICOM GOVERNMENT SERVICES
AMERICOM Government Services, Inc. (AGS), an independent corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of SES AMERICOM, Inc., is exclusively focused on meeting the satellite communication needs of the U.S. Government. Leveraging more than three decades of experience in the government SATCOM market, AGS offers robust and secure satellite-based communications solutions. By integrating hybrid telecommunications and information technology systems, including leading-edge IP platforms and applications, AGS provides secure broadband communications in support of mission-critical needs as well as day-to-day operations. As part of SES’s fleet of 39 satellites offering comprehensive global coverage and bandwidth portability, AGS’s solutions including highly reliable fixed, transportable and on-the-move services can be provided on a global basis. AGS’s reputation as a provider of high-value end-to-end solutions has been validated by long-term relationships with diverse customers, including DoD, Department of Commerce/NOAA, Department of Justice, Department of the Interior, Department of Transportation, NASA, and other civilian and defense-related agencies.
About SES AMERICOM
As the leading supplier of satellite services in the U.S., SES AMERICOM serves broadcasters, cable programmers, aeronautical and maritime communications integrators, internet service providers, mobile communications networks, government agencies, educational institutions, carriers and secure global data networks with efficient communications and content distribution solutions. The company, recognized as a major innovator of advanced satellite communications services, operates a fleet of 16 spacecraft in orbital positions predominantly providing service throughout the Americas.
SES AMERICOM is an SES company (Euronext Paris and Luxembourg Stock Exchange: SESG). SES wholly owns three market-leading satellite operators, SES ASTRA in Europe, SES AMERICOM in North America, and SES NEW SKIES which provides global coverage and connectivity. The company also holds 90% of SES SIRIUS in Europe as well as strategic participations in Ciel in Canada and QuetzSat in Mexico. SES provides outstanding satellite communications solutions via a fleet of 39 satellites in 25 orbital positions around the globe. Additional information on SES is available at www.ses.com.
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Contact:
Nicole Robinson, 703-610-0972