The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) reached the Initial Operational Capacity (IOC) milestone at the first six GIG-BE program sites as of 30-September-2004. GIG-BE, which will serve as the foundation for high-speed network needs of Department of Defense, is providing “Internet-like” capabilities over state-of-the-art optical networking technology. The ground-based optical network provides up to 10-Gbps connections between 90 sites around the globe. One of the main advancements of the GIG-BE program is to seamlessly integrate the capabilities of high performance routers with the advanced optical core.
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) serves as prime contractor for the project. Juniper Networks holds the multi-year contract for all IP routers for the GIG-BE Program. Juniper’s M- and T-series routing platforms are currently being deployed. http://www.juniper.nethttp://www.disa.mil/main/prodsol/gig_be.html
- The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) selected Science Applications International Corporation’s (SAIC’s) to build its Global Information Grid – Bandwidth Expansion (GIG-BE) system.
- SAIC has awarded a number of subcontracts under the project: Ciena for optical transport systems; Sprint/Sycamore for optical digital cross connect equipment; Juniper Networks for IP routers; and Qwest Government Services/Cisco Systems for multi-service provisioning platforms.
- DISA is a combat support agency responsible for planning, engineering, acquiring, fielding, and supporting global net-centric solutions and operating the Global Information Grid.
- In October 2004, DISA announced that David M. Mihelcic had been selected as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Previously, Mr. Mihelcic served as the chief engineer for the Global Information Grid Bandwidth Expansion (GIG-BE) program.