The U.S. Space Force is initiating a significant modernization of its digital infrastructure across all 14 of its bases, a project aimed at enhancing security and performance for critical national security operations. Defense contractor CACI International has secured a task order valued at up to $212 million over five years to lead the upgrade, part of a broader $12.5 billion Air Force-led initiative to overhaul aging military computer networks.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. Space Force is upgrading network infrastructure at all 14 of its bases worldwide.
- CACI International was awarded a five-year task order worth up to $212 million for the project.
- The initiative is part of the larger $12.5 billion Base Infrastructure Modernization (BIM) program.
- Upgrades will include zero trust security and improved support for cloud-based applications on both classified and unclassified networks.
A Foundation for Modern Space Operations
The comprehensive overhaul will address the digital backbone of the Space Force, replacing legacy systems with modern, high-throughput networks. This effort is designed to support the data-intensive nature of space operations, which rely on a constant flow of information between satellite constellations, ground control stations, and command centers.
The upgrades will be implemented across key installations, including Patrick Space Force Base in Florida, Buckley Space Force Base in Colorado, and Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The project also extends to the service's overseas installation, Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, ensuring a consistent standard of connectivity across its global footprint.
According to the Department of the Air Force, the goal is to provide resilient and high-capacity connectivity for both classified and unclassified systems. This move is seen as essential for maintaining operational readiness in an increasingly contested digital environment.
What is 'Zero Trust' Security?
A core component of the network upgrade is the implementation of a "zero trust" security architecture. Unlike traditional models that trust devices within a network perimeter, zero trust assumes no user or device is inherently trustworthy. It requires strict verification for every person and device trying to access resources on the network, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access and cyber attacks.
The $12.5 Billion Modernization Program
CACI's $212 million task order falls under a massive, 10-year contract vehicle known as the Base Infrastructure Modernization, or BIM, program. Valued at $12.5 billion, the BIM program was established by the Department of the Air Force to systematically upgrade network infrastructure across both Air Force and Space Force installations around the world.
The program uses an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) model. This approach allows the government to prequalify a pool of vendors—22 in this case, including CACI and General Dynamics Information Technology—and award specific projects through individual task orders. This flexible model enables the military to adapt to evolving technological requirements over the contract's 10-year lifespan.
By the Numbers: The BIM Program
- Total Value: $12.5 billion
- Duration: 10 years
- Prequalified Vendors: 22
- Space Force Bases Covered: 14
- CACI Task Order: Up to $212 million over 5 years
Shifting to an 'As a Service' Model
The BIM program represents a strategic shift in how the military procures and manages its information technology. Instead of relying on periodic hardware refreshes, the program employs an "enterprise IT as a service" model. Under this framework, contractors like CACI are responsible not only for the initial installation but also for the ongoing sustainment and modernization of the infrastructure.
This approach ensures that the networks remain current with the latest technology and security standards without requiring a new, lengthy procurement process for every update. It addresses a long-standing challenge within the Pentagon, where many critical network systems were built years ago and were not designed for today's data volumes or sophisticated cybersecurity threats.
For the Space Force, whose missions are fundamentally reliant on data, this continuous modernization is critical. The ability to securely manage and transmit vast amounts of information from satellites and ground sensors is directly tied to its capacity to monitor global threats and protect U.S. assets in space.
Preparing for a Contested Environment
The push to modernize these networks reflects a broader Pentagon priority: preparing to operate in environments where adversaries will actively attempt to disrupt U.S. communications through cyber attacks and electronic warfare. A robust, secure, and resilient network is considered a prerequisite for success in any future conflict.
By investing in modern infrastructure with built-in security features like zero trust, the Space Force aims to harden its systems against potential attacks. The enhanced capacity will also better support the move toward cloud-based applications and data processing, allowing for faster analysis and decision-making.
This network overhaul is a foundational step in ensuring the newest branch of the U.S. military can effectively execute its mission of protecting American and allied interests in the increasingly vital domain of space.