The United States military relies on a complex network of orbital assets that are highly vulnerable to solar storms, geomagnetic disturbances, and other extreme cosmic events. To ensure that satellites, power grids, and critical communication networks remain protected, the U.S. Space Force has officially awarded a major sustainment contract. The newly announced Peraton 109M Space Force SWAFS maintenance contract guarantees that the military will maintain a continuous, highly accurate understanding of the operating environment in space for years to come.
Sustaining SWAFS Through 2033
Awarded by the Space Systems Command’s Directorate of Contracting based in Colorado Springs, the massive hybrid contract was issued as a sole-source acquisition. Under the agreement, Peraton will provide comprehensive operations, sustainment, and maintenance support for the Space Weather Analysis and Forecast System (SWAFS).
Designed as a highly advanced, cloud-based platform, SWAFS gives military commanders and civil authorities real-time assessments of potentially catastrophic space weather events. By continuing to manage this vital infrastructure, Peraton ensures the uninterrupted delivery of data that is essential for protecting both the military’s GPS navigation networks and the timing signals that underpin global financial transactions.
The $109 million award represents a significant, long-term commitment to the program. The contract features a lengthy period of performance, with work expected to be completed by February 18, 2033. At the time of the award, the Space Force obligated $3.8 million in fiscal 2026 operations and maintenance funds, along with $1.1 million in research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) funds to immediately support the continuation of operations.
Modernization and Cybersecurity Enhancements
Beyond basic maintenance, Peraton is heavily tasked with aggressively modernizing the SWAFS architecture. As the Space Force rapidly digitizes its infrastructure, the contract explicitly funds the migration of legacy capabilities into more agile, cloud-centric environments.
Crucially, Peraton will also focus on the continued development and seamless integration of enhanced cybersecurity protocols. As space weather data becomes increasingly central to both national security and global economic stability, securing the networks that process and distribute this intelligence from advanced cyber threats is a top priority for the military. This latest contract firmly cements Peraton’s role as an indispensable partner in the Space Force’s mission to dominate and defend the final frontier.
