DISA soliciting bids for $4B global network project

The Defense Information Systems Agency has released the much-anticipated solicitation for its $4 billion plan to build a single global network encompassing all wired and wireless networks operating at speeds 10 times faster than those of today’s networks.

The Global Network Services contract will be a multiple-award, indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract, with a five-year base period and five one-year option periods, according to the Request For Proposals. The total value of the contract could reach $4.3 billion, C4ISR & Networks reported.  

The goal is to upgrade the transmission capabilities of the Defense Information System Network at the enterprise level and create a network that encompasses broadband fiber optic, Wi-Fi, satellite and cellular components all capable of transmitting voice, video, imagery and data at 100 gigabits per second. GNS will handle traffic on both the non-classified NIPRnet and the classified SIPRnet, and the contract will require that key contractor personnel have U.S. Secret clearances (viewing the full solicitation, in fact, requires a security clearance). DISA wants to have GNS in place by 2020.

Although the scope of the GNS contract is global, DISA said it expects to focus on work overseas and use other contract vehicles for work in the continental United States.

GNS has been in the works since early 2012, when DISA began issuing requests for information to industry.

DISA said it expects to give multiple-award contracts to one or more vendors, after which the awardees will compete for task orders. Responses to the RFP are due by May 18.