SMC seeking modernized IT infrastructure to support Next-Gen OPIR, ESS

The Space and Missile Systems Center is looking to modernize its information technology infrastructure, writing in a recent request for information that the move is necessary to support two major programs -- the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications and Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared systems.

In order to meet changing security requirements, SMC has created a “significant number of disparate networks” within its legacy IT infrastructure that made information sharing, at classified and unclassified levels, inefficient. Because these programs in particular are looking to integrate with multiple government agencies -- a process complicated by new Defense Department requirements for increased security protections for nuclear command control programs -- the center is looking to modernize.

“Due to the [Next-Generation] OPIR and ESS program offices’ growth over the past few years, the network integration with industry and support contractors has become more complex, while the new National Command and Control Communications security classification guide drives significant increased need for classified network and system access for the SMC and its partners,” the RFI states.

Possible solutions should be agile and scalable at the secret, top secret collateral and top secret/sensitive compartmented information levels and should provide “a suite of administrative, collaboration and simulation/modeling tools and capabilities in support or NG OPIR and ESS,” the document states.