Optus signs $19.5 million defence contract

Optus has signed a $19.5 million contract that extends its satellite services to the Australian Department of Defence for another four years.

The contract involces the command and control of the Optus C1 Defence payload as well as of the provision of professional satellite support services for the Department's wider satellite capability.

The joint-funded C1 satellite was launched in 2003 and is controlled by Optus from a Sydney-based station.

Optus Satellite's vice president, Paul Sheridan, said "today’s announcement reaffirms Optus’ position as Australia’s leading satellite operator."

Air Commodore Nick Barnevald said that the contract "extends Defence's long and strong relationship with Optus in delivering satellite communications services."

"Our people will continue to work together to ensure our military forces can stay connected and informed as they operate across Australia’s vast distances and beyond.”