$17 million contract for Xage cybersecurity for Space Force networks

Cybersecurity firm Xage has won a $17 million contract to protect the Space Force's Space Systems Command's networks for the next five years. Xage's base in Palo Alto, California, specializes in using "zero trust" software to thwart network intrusions. The agreement covers the protection of information networks, satellite ground stations, modems and other Space Force assets.

"Zero trust" approach for complete cybersecurity

The "zero trust" approach means that individuals or devices trying to access a network cannot automatically be trusted. With this approach, users must be verified every time they request access. Xage's technology is used by energy companies and critical infrastructure operators. Xage's cybersecurity platform is described as a "mesh network" that protects data exchanges across layered networks, including interactions between government and commercial systems.

Collaboration with the military and previous Air Force contracts

Xage Security has been working with the military for several years. In 2020, it won a contract from the Air Force Research Laboratory to study end-to-end data protection options to support the Space Force's command and control of military and civilian assets. This contract followed a Phase 1 research and development funded by the Air Force's AFWERX program in 2019 to demonstrate cybersecurity solutions for Air Force systems.

Zero trust as a key cybersecurity strategy for Space Systems Command

According to Geoffrey Mattson, CEO of Xage Security, Space Systems Command has strongly adopted the "zero trust" strategy, which significantly limits the ability of attackers to access the system or move within the network. Xage's mesh platform also prevents the spread of cyber attacks by isolating certain applications from interacting with others in the network. This strategic collaboration between Xage Security and the Space Force will help ensure comprehensive protection of the military organization's space networks and assets.