Alion to support Air Force spectrum management under $15M contract

With the ever-increasing demand for radio-frequency bandwidth from the commercial wireless industry, one of the Air Force’s greatest challenges is preventing potentially dangerous interference for U.S. Air Force operations. To ensure adequate spectrum access in support of national security priorities without disrupting operations, testing and training, the Air Force Spectrum Management Office (AFSMO) has awarded McLean, VA-based Alion Science and Technology a $15 million, 5-year contract to meet this need, the company announced January 13.

Under the contract, Alion will assist AFSMO with its global mission to provide spectrum management, including strategic planning and policy recommendations, satellite coordination, and spectrum reallocation. Alion will also conduct research and technical analyses to determine the feasibility of sharing spectrum with commercial wireless providers, identify new spectrum for relocation and implement transition plans for affected spectrum-dependent systems. Additionally, Alion will support AFSMO’s participation in national and international regulatory forums.

“Access to wireless frequencies is essential for national security as well as for commercial uses. Our extensive experience and expertise in broadband communication will provide the Air Force with a comprehensive approach to securing spectrum for critical operations and training,” said Chris Amos, Alion Senior Vice President and Manager of the Technology Solutions Group. “Alion will support AFSMO’s mission while enabling the commercial use of additional bandwidth, ensuring that all authorized users have the access they need while preventing interference.”

With more than 50 years of spectrum engineering support for the Department of Defense, Alion has a dedicated staff of spectrum engineering and subject matter experts in all areas of spectrum management, from strategic policy to technical analysis. Alion utilizes unique, state-of-the-art tools to measure, analyze and resolve spectrum conflicts.

The task order was awarded under the Defense Systems Technical Area Task Multiple Award Contract (DS TAT MAC).

Source: Alion Science and Technology