[Satellite Today – 5-30-08] ND SatCom has won a contract from the U.S. Navy, which could be worth close to $300 million over the next five years, the company said May 30. The deal is a critical one for the company, and Christopher Morris, CEO of ND SatCom Inc says the deal is evidence that “for the first time in its history, the company now has the status of being a recognized defence contractor in the U.S.”
    ND SatCom, an SES Astra subsidiary,  has been selected as a prime contractor for the U.S. Department of the Navy, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center (SPAWAR) in Charleston, South Carolina. The contract establishes a framework for ND SatCom to deliver multiple portable satellite communication (Satcom) terminals to the U.S. Navy.
    The company’s potential share of the contract award could reach up to approximately $51 million in the first year, with the opportunity to secure orders totalling $289 million over five years, if all options are exercised. In total, seven different companies were selected to contribute to the program. The initial requirements and delivery schedules are currently being determined.