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The Skynet 5 Private Finance Initiative
The UK MoD’s Skynet 5 programme is delivering secure global satellite communications services under a groundbreaking Private Finance Initiative (PFI) approach pioneered by Astrium Services’ subsidiary Paradigm, the first commercial provider of secure military communications services. Under the contract, signed in 2003, the MoD transferred ownership and operation of the existing Skynet 4 infrastructure to Paradigm, and the company is procuring and managing the introduction into service of three new-generation Skynet 5 satellites (due for launch in 2007–2008), a major upgrade of the fixed terrestrial infrastructure, networks and management systems in the UK and provision of a range of new terminals. All UK secure satellite communications needs, including maintenance and operation of the complete ground infrastructure, are delivered by Paradigm.
The programme provides a range of services, including global mobile voice communications, video conferencing, multimedia-based communications and broadcast communications, as well as supplying a versatile range of shipborne and land-based terminals, for purchase or lease. Offering a ‘catalogue of services’, Paradigm delivers tailored in-theatre and back-to-base communications solutions for voice, data and video services, from a single voice channel to a complete turnkey system incorporating terminals and network management, with supplementary services in training and consultancy. Under the Skynet 5 contract Paradigm is delivering the highly successful ‘Welfare’ Communications Service designed to keep troops serving abroad, on land or at sea, in touch with their friends and families back at home through voice and internet connectivity.
The PFI approach offers ordering and payment for services as required, access to a service designed to grow in line with capacity requirements and introduction of new technologies and fresh ideas in a much more dynamic way than ever before.
Following this flexible service-provision model, Paradigm is also delivering managed secure military satellite services to a number of other countries and organisations including NATO.