Xage Security, a cybersecurity firm based in Palo Alto, California, has secured a significant contract worth $17 million to safeguard the Space Systems Command networks of the United States Space Force over the next five years. This announcement underscores the growing importance of cybersecurity in protecting critical infrastructure, particularly in the aerospace sector. Xage specializes in zero trust software, which serves as a powerful defense against network intrusions.
The contract, officially announced on September 27, is primarily focused on protecting information networks, satellite ground stations, modems, and other crucial Space Force assets. However, Geoffrey Mattson, CEO of Xage Security, has revealed that the scope of the agreement extends to include the safeguarding of hybrid satellite architectures that combine both government-owned and commercial systems. This is an indication of the company’s ability to cater to the unique requirements and intricacies of the space industry.
Xage’s zero trust approach is centered on the principle that individuals or devices seeking network access should never be automatically trusted. Instead, users are continuously verified each time they request entry. This robust security measure is not only employed by the Space Systems Command but also by energy companies and operators of critical infrastructure.
At the core of Xage’s cybersecurity system is their mesh cybersecurity platform, which ensures secure data exchanges across multi-layered networks. This platform also plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of cyberattacks by effectively isolating certain applications that should not interact with others within the network. According to Mattson, the Space Systems Command has fully embraced the philosophy of zero trust, leaving attackers with very little room to infiltrate or maneuver within the network.
Xage Security has built a strong rapport with the military over the years, having previously collaborated with the Air Force Research Laboratory on a contract focusing on end-to-end data protection. Moreover, in 2019, the company was awarded a Small Business Innovation Research Phase 1 contract by the Air Force’s AFWERX program to demonstrate their cybersecurity solutions for Air Force systems. These past collaborations are a testament to Xage’s expertise and reputation in providing top-notch cybersecurity solutions for defense and aerospace sectors.
This $17 million contract further solidifies Xage Security’s position as a trusted partner in safeguarding critical infrastructure, including the vital networks of the Space Systems Command. As the threat landscape evolves, partnerships between cybersecurity firms like Xage and government agencies will continue to play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and security of sensitive data and systems. The importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be understated, particularly within sectors as critical as space exploration, where the stakes are high. Xage Security’s winning of this contract marks another significant milestone in their journey of protecting essential networks against cyber threats.
