MCLEAN, Va., 28 April 2012. Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC) [NYSE: SAI] has been awarded a prime contract by the U.S. Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) to produce the Battle Force Tactical Network (BFTN) system. The contract has a one-year base period of performance, four one-year options, and a contract value of approximately $57 million, if all options are exercised. Work will be performed in Sterling, Va.

The BFTN system will offer network connectivity using the High Frequency (HF) and Ultra High Frequency (UHF) radio spectrum. The hardware being used for the BFTN system will be Commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware and Government-Furnished Equipment (GFE) software to provide data connectivity. The system will use Internet Protocol (IP) for communication. The BFTN system will connect surface ships, submarines, aircraft and the naval shore.

As the Navy's Information Dominance Systems Command, SPAWAR designs, develops and deploys communications and information capabilities. The BFTN system provides connectivity to the maritime operational environment for Navy and joint forces. Under the contract, SAIC will provide engineering and technical services in support of BFTN systems, as well as production of BFTN rack systems.