SAN DIEGO, April 24, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets, announced today that it will publish financial results for the first quarter 2023 after the close of market on Wednesday, May 3rd. Management will discuss the Company’s operations and financial results in a conference call beginning at 2:00 p.m. Pacific (5:00 p.m. Eastern).
The call will be available at www.kratosdefense.com. Participants may register for the call using this Online Form. Upon registration, all telephone participants will receive the dial-in number along with a unique PIN that can be used to access the call. For those who cannot access the live broadcast, a replay will be available on Kratos’ website.
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) is a Technology Company that develops and fields transformative, affordable systems, products and solutions for United States National Security, our allies and global commercial enterprises. At Kratos, Affordability is a Technology, and Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technology is rapidly brought to market – at a low cost – with actual products, systems, and technologies rather than slide decks or renderings. Through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive, internally funded research and streamlined development processes, Kratos is focused on being First to Market with our solutions, well in advance of competition. Kratos is the recognized Technology Disruptor in our core market areas, including Space and Satellite Communications, Cyber Security and Warfare, Unmanned Systems, Rocket and Hypersonic Systems, Next-Generation Jet Engines and Propulsion Systems, Microwave Electronics, C5ISR and Virtual and Augmented Reality Training Systems. For more information, visit www.KratosDefense.com.
Partnership Focuses on Delivering Fully Digital-Enabled Edge Terminal Solutions
SAN DIEGO and READING, United Kingdom, April 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a technology company specializing in defense, national security and communications solutions, and ALL.SPACE, the world’s only provider of multi-orbit smart terminals, announced today a strategic partnership aimed at jointly developing and delivering solutions that will enable software-defined satellite ground systems to better leverage the capabilities of next-generation smart terminals. The combined solutions are expected to enhance dynamic operations end-to-end across the ground segment from the gateway to the network’s edge, placing more application power in the hands of end users and greatly expanding flexibility beyond today’s proprietary, purpose-built, satellite terminals.
The space industry is immersed in a renaissance driven by technology breakthroughs such as software-defined payloads, small satellite constellations, multi-orbit services and more. On the ground, advances in satellite networks are occurring as well, including the growth of ground station-as-a-service, virtualized ground systems and the need to better mainstream with terrestrial and cellular communications networks. These advances at both ends of the space/ground connection mean that satellite network systems must come to act more dynamically, adapting on-the-fly to changing needs, conditions and business or mission requirements.
Today’s announcement is part of a multi-year collaboration to integrate and enhance both companies’ products. It is supported by a joint development roadmap focused on new features, functions and capabilities that will deliver more powerful, flexible and agile terminal capabilities at the network’s edge for both defense and commercial uses, such as advanced support for multi-mission and multi-orbit capabilities.
According to Greg Quiggle, Senior Vice President of Space Product Management at Kratos, “Historically, satellite terminals have been defined by proprietary technologies resident on purpose-built hardware, severally limiting what users could accomplish at the network’s edge. That all changes with software-defined networking, which has long been the standard in global terrestrial communications and is now available for satellite network operators through the OpenSpace Platform. ALL.SPACE is a leader in smart terminal technology and a profound partner for Kratos to work with in revolutionizing what users can accomplish at the satellite network’s edge.”
“We are creating a new generation of digital, flexible terminals featuring both a multi-beam antenna and a platform capable of hosting software-defined applications,” said John-Paul Szczepanik, Chief Technology Officer for ALL.SPACE. “ALL.SPACE’s multilink terminal delivers the combined strengths of all orbits by unlocking simultaneous access to multiple networks. We believe pairing this flexibility with the Kratos OpenSpace Platform will dramatically enhance dynamic operations at the edge.”
Kratos and ALL.SPACE have already begun integrating their respective technologies, including elements of Kratos’ OpenSpace® software-defined ground system, such as its OpenSpace virtual modem (vModem) and OpenEdge™ 2500 digitizer, with ALL.SPACE’s S2000 Smart Terminal.
The jointly developed solutions will conform to industry standards for maximum flexibility, including the IEEE-ISTO Std 4900-2021: Digital IF Interoperability Standard from the Digital IF Interoperability (DIFI) Consortium (DIFI). Both companies believe that common standards are essential for the space industry to realize the opportunities on the horizon and to advance the industry’s integration with the larger global communications infrastructure. Both are founding members of DIFI, an independent organization created to develop and promote standards for interoperability in space and satellite systems.
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) is a technology company that develops and fields transformative, affordable systems, products and solutions for United States National Security, its allies and global commercial enterprises. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technology is rapidly brought to market with actual products, systems and technologies rather than slide decks or renderings. Through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive, internally funded research and streamlined development processes, Kratos is focused on being first to market with our solutions, well in advance of competition. Kratos is the recognized Technology Disruptor in our core market areas, including Space and Satellite Communications, Cyber Security and Warfare, Unmanned Systems, Rocket and Hypersonic Systems, Next-Generation Jet Engines and Propulsion Systems, Microwave Electronics, C5ISR and Virtual and Augmented Reality Training Systems. For more information, visit www.KratosDefense.com.
About ALL.SPACE Headquartered in Reading, UK, ALL.SPACE is the first and only field-proven platform to simultaneously deliver full-performance connections across all significant orbits from a single device. The company recently concluded live field tests with the US and UK governments and several satellite operators demonstrating multiple, simultaneous connections across LEO, MEO and GEO orbits, which empowers users in markets ranging from government and defence to maritime, aero and land mobile to harness the full benefits of new satellite constellations and the convergence of GEO and NGSO (Non-Geostationary Orbit) services.
Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 25, 2022, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the by Kratos.
Kratos Press Contact: Yolanda White 858-812-7302 Direct
SAN DIEGO, April 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a leading National Security Solutions provider, announced today that it was awarded a contract by a DoD Prime contractor to provide a concurrency upgrade to multiple ground tactical platform maintenance training systems.
Commenting on the award, Jose Diaz, Sr. Vice President at Kratos Training Solutions, stated: “Over the last 25 years Kratos has supported DoD and allied military customers by designing, developing and delivering advanced maintenance training systems. We are committed to delivering the same high level of quality with these upgrades.”
Due to customer, competitive, security-related and other considerations, no additional information will be provided related to this contract award.
Kratos develops advanced, cost-effective maintenance and operational training solutions for U.S. and allied forces to enhance warfighter readiness and survivability. Kratos is driving innovation in military simulation and training programs through application of immersive technologies within advanced simulation systems for air, ground, maritime and space domains.
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) is a Technology Company that develops and fields transformative, affordable systems, products and solutions for United States National Security, our allies and global commercial enterprises. At Kratos, Affordability is a Technology, and Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technology is rapidly brought to market – at a low cost – with actual products, systems and technologies rather than slide decks or renderings. Through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive, internally funded research and streamlined development processes, Kratos is focused on being First to Market with our solutions, well in advance of competition. Kratos is the recognized Technology Disruptor in our core market areas, including Space and Satellite Communications, Cyber Security and Warfare, Unmanned Systems, Rocket and Hypersonic Systems, Next-Generation Jet Engines and Propulsion Systems, Microwave Electronics, C5ISR and Virtual and Augmented Reality Training Systems. For more information, visit www.KratosDefense.com.
Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 25, 2022, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.
V2X awarded O-level maintenance contract for Naval Test Wing Pacific
MCLEAN, Va., April 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Vertex, a V2X company (NYSE: VVX), was awarded a $440 million contract by the U.S. Navy to provide aircraft maintenance support for Naval Test Wing Pacific (NTWP) VX-30 and VX-31 at Point Mugu, CA and China Lake, CA. Under this contract, V2X, under its legacy company Vertex, is the chosen provider of flightline maintenance, logistics, and technical support for the two weapons development and test squadrons. This important mission complements NAVAIR’s efforts to develop, test and sustain the Navy’s most current suite of capabilities.
“V2X is honored to be selected to support the critical test and evaluation activities performed at Naval Test Wing Pacific,” said Chuck Prow, V2X CEO. “Our established history and record of performance providing maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical support for a variety of Naval Aviation platforms demonstrate our commitment to maintaining high levels of mission readiness.”
NTWP provides safe, effective, and efficient ground and flight test, airborne flight test support, and experimental operations of manned and unmanned aircraft, weapons, and weapons systems for the Department of the Navy.
This contract has a seven-year award period ending in March 2030.
ABOUT V2X
V2X is a leading provider of critical mission solutions and support to defense clients globally, formed by the 2022 Merger of Vectrus and Vertex to build on more than 120 combined years of successful mission support. The Company delivers a comprehensive suite of integrated solutions across the operations and logistics, aerospace, training, and technology markets to national security, defense, civilian and international clients. Our global team of approximately 15,000 employees brings innovation to every point in the mission lifecycle, from preparation to operations to sustainment, as it tackles the most complex challenges with agility, grit, and dedication.
On July 5, 2022 (“Closing Date”), Vectrus, Inc. (“Vectrus”) completed its merger (“the Merger”) with Vertex Aerospace Services Holding Corp. (“Vertex”), thereby forming V2X, Inc. Fourth quarter “reported results” reflect the contributions of Vectrus and Vertex from October 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022. Full year 2022 “reported results” reflect the contributions of Vectrus from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022, and Vertex from the Closing Date through December 31, 2022, unless otherwise noted. Comparisons to historical periods are relative to legacy Vectrus results, unless otherwise noted.
Fourth Quarter 2022 Highlights:
Revenue of $978.2 million, up 20% y/y on a pro forma basis
Grew INDOPACOM revenue sevenfold as presence and footprint continues to expand
Recently awarded two key contracts with Space Command and a National Security client
Reported operating income of $31.0 million; adjusted operating income1 of $74.5 million
Adjusted EBITDA1 of $79.3 million with a margin1 of 8.1%
Diluted EPS of ($0.35); adjusted diluted EPS1 of $0.92
Repaid $25.0 million of debt and in February 2023 executed a more efficient credit facility with substantial interest savings and improved liquidity
2023 Guidance:
Establishing full-year 2023 guidance with revenue growth of 5% and adjusted EBITDA1 growth of 8% at the mid-point
MCLEAN, Va., March 2, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — V2X, Inc. (NYSE:VVX) announced fourth quarter and full-year 2022 financial results.
“This was a very successful year, achieving several milestones, including the completion of the merger with Vertex and making significant progress on the integration while driving strong results with high quality uninterrupted service and support to our clients,” said Chuck Prow, President and Chief Executive Officer of V2X. “Our teams came together seamlessly, demonstrating agility and outstanding performance, delivering 9% pro forma revenue growth for the full year. Importantly, current demand and leading indicators for our business remain strong with a substantial backlog of over $12 billion and close to 4.5 years of future revenue already under contract for our top ten programs. With our enhanced and differentiated capabilities, we are providing increased innovation and technology to our clients’ complex mission requirements and believe we have meaningful opportunity for future growth with our expanded addressable market of approximately $160 billion dollars.”
Mr. Prow continued, “We capped off the year with 20% year-over-year pro forma revenue growth in the fourth quarter, driven by new business wins, successful recompetes, and continued expansion on our core programs. Importantly, we demonstrated significant growth in the Pacific or INDOPACOM, as our presence and footprint expands to support increasing mission requirements. Our momentum is continuing this year, and in January 2023 we were awarded a strategically important five-year recompete contract valued at over $90 million with a National Security client. I’d like to thank our team for their exceptional performance and dedication, which has resulted in significant growth with this client over the past several years. Adjusted EBITDA margin1 was 8.1%, due to favorable program performance, strong execution, and the acceleration of program productivity that was expected in 2023. Our integration related activities continue to progress, and we were successful in delivering our expected cost synergies for the quarter. We remain on track to achieve our integration milestones and previously communicated cost synergies.”
Mr. Prow concluded, “The significant momentum in our business, a robust backlog exceeding $12 billion, and limited recompete risk, provides solid visibility that we believe should drive revenue growth of approximately 5% at the mid-point in 2023. Importantly, over 90% of 2023 revenue is expected to be generated from existing contracts. Furthermore, recompetes are expected to comprise only 2% of revenue. In 2023, we remain focused on delivering on our strategy to drive growth and value creation by providing converged solutions that fuse the digital and physical aspects of our clients’ missions. We have much to be excited about and will continue to execute our strategic framework to: Expand the Base, Capture New Markets, Deliver with Excellence, and Enhance Culture.”
Fourth Quarter 2022 Results
Revenue of $978.2 million, up 20% y/y on a pro forma basis
Operating income of $31.0 million, including merger and integration related costs of $23.4 million and amortization of acquired intangible assets of $20.1 million
Adjusted operating income1 of $74.5 million
Adjusted EBITDA1 of $79.3 million with an 8.1% adjusted EBITDA margin1
Diluted EPS of ($0.35) including merger and integration related costs
Adjusted diluted EPS1 of $0.92
Net debt as of December 31, 2022, of $1,221 million, representing an $87 million decrease from the Merger closing on July 5, 2022
The Company was undrawn on its revolver as of December 31, 2022
Total backlog as of December 31, 2022, of $12.3 billion
“Our fourth quarter financial results were strong and provide great traction for V2X leading into 2023,” said Susan Lynch, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. “Pro forma revenue increased 20% year-over-year to $978.2 million. Revenue growth was driven by continued expansion in INDOPACOM and on LOGCAP, volume associated with rapid response efforts in Europe, and growth associated with new programs including Fort Benning, E-6B, Advanced Helicopter Training System, Navy Test Wing Atlantic, and Global Strike programs. Notably, revenue from INDOPACOM increased sevenfold year-over-year to $54.4 million, reflecting our additional work throughout the region, including Kwajalein and the Philippines.”
Ms. Lynch continued, “In the fourth quarter, V2X leveraged its solid cash position to repay $25 million of its second lien term loan. Importantly, our strong fundamentals and visibility have allowed V2X to significantly improve its capital structure by refinancing portions of its debt into a lower cost, pro rata credit facility. This new, five-year $750 million credit facility is expected to generate substantial interest expense savings and drive value for our shareholders. At the end of the fourth quarter, our net consolidated indebtedness to EBITDA1 (net leverage ratio) was 3.7x, a 0.3x improvement from Merger close. We have been able to reduce our leverage in line with plan and anticipate that our leverage ratio will show further improvement in 2023.”
Full-Year 2022 Results
Full-year revenue was $2.891 billion and pro forma revenue was $3.670 billion, up 8.8% pro forma year-on-year. The Company reported full-year operating income of $55.8 million and adjusted operating income1 of $187.5 million. Full-year EBITDA1 was $201.0 million with a margin of 7.0%. Full year pro forma Adjusted EBITDA1 was $278.0 million with a margin of 7.6%. Full-year diluted EPS was ($0.68), due primarily to Merger and integration related costs, amortization of acquired intangible assets and interest expense. Adjusted diluted EPS1 for 2022 was $4.60.
Cash provided by operating activities for the year was $93.5 million, compared to $61.3 million in 2021 for legacy Vectrus. Pro forma adjusted operating cash flow for the year was $85.8 million and excludes $62 million of Merger related payments and $8 million of repayments tied to the CARES Act. Lynch continued, “Our ability to generate strong cash flow with low capital intensity is an important attribute of our business.”
During the second half of the year, V2X lowered its net debt balance by $87 million resulting in an ending balance of $1,220.7 million. Cash at year-end was $116.1 million up from $38.5 million at the end of 2021.
Total backlog as of December 31, 2022 was $12.3 billion and funded backlog was $2.6 billion. The trailing twelve-month book-to-bill was 1.3x.
2023 Guidance
Ms. Lynch concluded, “Based on our expected continued strong demand trends and operational execution, we are setting the mid-point of our guidance for revenue at $3.850 billion, representing approximately 5% pro forma growth and Adjusted EBITDA1 of $300 million, representing 8% pro forma growth.”
Guidance for 2023 is as follows:
Fourth Quarter 2022 Conference Call
Management will conduct a conference call with analysts and investors at 4:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, March 2, 2023. U.S.-based participants may dial in to the conference call at 877-506-6380, while international participants may dial 412-542-4198. A live webcast of the conference call as well as an accompanying slide presentation will be available here: https://app.webinar.net/EZQ7LMALNPo
A replay of the conference call will be posted on the V2X website shortly after completion of the call and will be available for one year. A telephonic replay will also be available through March 16, 2023, at 844-512-2921 (domestic) or 412-317-6671 (international) with passcode 10174938.
Presentation slides that will be used in conjunction with the conference call will also be made available online in advance at https://investors.vectrus.com/. V2X recognizes its website as a key channel of distribution to reach public investors and as a means of disclosing material non-public information to comply with its obligations under the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Regulation FD.
Footnotes: 1 See “Key Performance Indicators and Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for descriptions and reconciliations.
About V2X
V2X is a leading provider of critical mission solutions and support to defense clients globally, formed by the 2022 Merger of Vectrus and Vertex to build on more than 120 combined years of successful mission support. The Company delivers a comprehensive suite of integrated solutions across the operations and logistics, aerospace, training and technology markets to national security, defense, civilian and international clients. Our global team of approximately 14,000 employees brings innovation to every point in the mission lifecycle, from preparation, to operations, to sustainment, as it tackles the most complex challenges with agility, grit, and dedication.
Safe Harbor Statement
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”): Certain material presented herein includes forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Act. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, all the statements and items listed under “2023 Guidance” above and other assumptions contained therein for purposes of such guidance, other statements about our 2023 performance outlook, revenue, contract opportunities, and any discussion of future operating or financial performance.
Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “potential,” “continue” or similar terminology. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management of the Company based on information currently available to management.
These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions, or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other important factors, many of which are outside our management’s control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s historical experience and our present expectations or projections. For a discussion of some of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from such forward-looking statements, see the risks and other factors detailed from time to time our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and other filings with the SEC.
We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Virtualized software apps bring more power and flexibility to the edge by replacing dedicated hardware
SAN DIEGO, Feb. 22, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a leading National Security Solutions provider, released the first of its new OpenEdge™ products, the industry’s first open standards-based and software-enabled satellite terminals. Part of Kratos’ OpenSpace® Platform, OpenEdge is the first generally available family of satellite network edge devices employing a modern, software-defined approach for a range of communications, observation, sensing and TT&C uses. OpenEdge is the next step in Kratos’ ongoing effort to support the mainstreaming of satellite services by enabling satellite ground systems to operate seamlessly with today’s wireless and terrestrial networks.
Until OpenEdge, satellite terminals─ the devices that end users employ at the far edge of a satellite ground network to transmit and receive data─ have been purpose-built hardware devices that seriously restrict functionality and flexibility at the network’s edge. OpenEdge disrupts these limitations by:
employing virtualized software modems that can run on general purpose, off-the-shelf compute, and
adding far more power and versatility by enabling additional apps to run at the network’s edge, fully orchestrated across service delivery
Bringing Flexibility to the Network’s Edge Today’s satellite terminals consist of purpose-built hardware components that are limited to performing a dedicated function, for example a satellite modem performing modulation/demodulation functions. OpenEdge uses a different model for operating at the edge, one that employs standards already widely adopted across the larger global telecommunications industry to expand terminal functions and make them more flexible. These standards are what enable mobile devices such as smartphones to support roaming, use cloud-based functions, interoperate with other networks and do much more. While satellites present a more complex technology challenge, the goal of OpenSpace and OpenEdge is to help satellite operators make their services as mainstream as cellular communications and to capitalize on new services such as 5G.
“OpenEdge satellite terminals extend the dynamic operations of the OpenSpace Platform beyond the core and gateway out to the network’s far edge,” said Greg Quiggle, Senior Vice President of Space Product Management at Kratos, “As a result, signal processing and other value-added network functions happen closer to the end user. This enables satellite service providers to deploy new services in minutes while dramatically reducing the overall lifecycle cost of their network.
Intelsat, one of the world’s largest commercial satellite operators, will be among the first to supplant traditional satellite terminals with OpenEdge capabilities.
“OpenEdge technology powers Intelsat’s family of smart edge satellite terminals providing a highly dynamic and application-optimized customer experience. Through this open and virtualized platform, we are able to deliver new services and features to the customer edge on-demand,” commented Blane Boynton, VP Product Development at Intelsat. “We expect this technology to benefit customers across multiple industries and applications, from fixed cellular backhaul and enterprise connectivity, to inflight and maritime applications. In the near future, we’ll rely on OpenEdge technology to help us be the first to transition to 5G, standards based, service delivery for non-terrestrial applications.”
Adding Power at the Edge The OpenEdge advantage starts with Kratos’ virtual modem, replacing the traditional hardware box with software that can run on off-the-shelf x86 compute devices, such as a generic server, a laptop or in the cloud. It can interface directly with a digitally-enabled antenna or be configured with a built-in digitizer that converts the satellite’s analog RF signals into standard Internet Protocol (IP) packets that can be operated upon digitally.
Because OpenEdge effectively turns the traditional, purpose-built terminal into a generic, off-the-shelf computer─ sometimes referred to as universal customer premises equipment (uCPE)─ it can incorporate any x86 applications into operations at the edge. For example, a spectrum monitoring app can be loaded so that end users in the field can quickly find alternate routes for avoiding interference or intentional jamming of satellite signals. In fact, operators or mission controllers can actually turn the terminal into a remote hub in minutes simply by remotely enabling additional software directly into the terminal. The Value of Orchestration At a time when satcom equipment vendors are still struggling to virtualize even basic network functions, Kratos has done that and more by delivering orchestrated virtual network functions today. Orchestration is the ability to specify and automate how network functions will interoperate with each other to support specific services, missions, customer requirements and satellite payloads, and to intelligently configure and reconfigure themselves in real time as needs and demands change. While common across the global communications infrastructure, orchestration has not been employed to great degree in satellite networks, in part due to the challenge of virtualizing unique satcom functions. However, traditional hardware-based ground systems and terminals simply can no longer keep up with the increasingly dynamic advances in both the space layer, such as software-defined satellites and constellations of smallsats, nor in the world’s global communications networks, such as automated provisioning and mobility. In contrast, OpenSpace can ably support these necessary dynamic operations.
Additional OpenEdge Advantages The dynamic advances in OpenEdge support additional benefits to network operators and their customers with more power and flexibility at the edge, including:
Support for Multiple Missions and Markets. OpenEdge terminals simultaneously support a variety of fixed and mobile satellite use cases, including two-way Satellite Communication (satcom), Earth Observation and Remote Sensing (EO/RS), and Telemetry, Tracking & Command (TT&C). Additionally, they can deliver complementary end-user services in the same way that a terrestrial network does, such as enterprise network extension, cellular backhaul, telecom trunking and defense and government applications.
Lower Hardware Cost, Smaller Footprint. OpenEdge terminals reduce the overall hardware footprint to a single box. As a generic x86 device, it both costs less than proprietary units while enabling more power simply by adding complementary software apps. Because the digitizer can be built in, OpenEdge terminals can work with virtually any mission-suitable antenna.
Enhanced Security at the Edge. Any x86-based app can be loaded on the OpenEdge terminal, including firewalls, encrypters and more advanced or custom security applications for highly sensitive uses.
Eliminate Vendor Lock-In. Today’s purpose-built terminals all employ proprietary architectures which lock customers into their equipment for given services, especially in satcom. In contrast, OpenEdge, and the entire OpenSpace Platform, embrace commonly accepted industry interoperability standards, enabling OpenEdge terminals to work side-by-side with standards compliant devices from other companies. In addition, network operators will find much greater success integrating their space-based offerings into the global communications mainstream, expanding their reach, services and revenue.
About Kratos OpenSpace Kratos’ OpenSpace family of solutions enables the digital transformation of satellite ground systems to become a more dynamic and powerful part of the space network. The family consists of three product lines: OpenSpace SpectralNet for converting satellite RF signals to be used in digital environments; OpenSpace quantum products, which are virtual versions of traditional hardware components; and the OpenSpace Platform, the first commercially available, fully orchestrated, software-defined ground system. These three OpenSpace lines enable satellite operators and other service providers to implement digital operations at their own pace and in ways that meet their unique mission goals and business models. For more information about the OpenSpace family visit http://KratosDefense.com/OpenSpace.
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:KTOS) develops and fields transformative, affordable technology, platforms and systems for United States National Security related customers, allies and commercial enterprises. Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technology for these industries are rapidly brought to market through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive research, and streamlined development processes. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we specialize in unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, hypersonic systems, training, combat systems and next generation turbo jet and turbo fan engine development. For more information go to www.KratosDefense.com.
Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 26, 2021, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.
Image: Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory MAGTAF Integrated Experiment (MCWL) 160709-M-OB268-165.jpg
War in Ukraine Accelerates Global Drive Toward Killer Robots
The U.S. military is intensifying its commitment to the development and use of autonomous weapons, as confirmed by an update to a Department of Defense directive. The update, released Jan. 25, 2023, is the first in a decade to focus on artificial intelligence autonomous weapons. It follows a related implementation plan released by NATO on Oct. 13, 2022, that is aimed at preserving the alliance’s “technological edge” in what are sometimes called “killer robots.”
Both announcements reflect a crucial lesson militaries around the world have learned from recent combat operations in Ukraine and Nagorno-Karabakh: Weaponized artificial intelligence is the future of warfare.
“We know that commanders are seeing a military value in loitering munitions in Ukraine,” Richard Moyes, director of Article 36, a humanitarian organization focused on reducing harm from weapons, told me in an interview. These weapons, which are a cross between a bomb and a drone, can hover for extended periods while waiting for a target. For now, such semi-autonomous missiles are generally being operated with significant human control over key decisions, he said.
Pressure of War
But as casualties mount in Ukraine, so does the pressure to achieve decisive battlefield advantages with fully autonomous weapons – robots that can choose, hunt down and attack their targets all on their own, without needing any human supervision.
This month, a key Russian manufacturer announced plans to develop a new combat version of its Marker reconnaissance robot, an uncrewed ground vehicle, to augment existing forces in Ukraine. Fully autonomous drones are already being used to defend Ukrainian energy facilities from other drones. Wahid Nawabi, CEO of the U.S. defense contractor that manufactures the semi-autonomous Switchblade drone, said the technology is already within reach to convert these weapons to become fully autonomous.
Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s digital transformation minister, has argued that fully autonomous weapons are the war’s “logical and inevitable next step” and recently said that soldiers might see them on the battlefield in the next six months.
Proponents of fully autonomous weapons systems argue that the technology will keep soldiers out of harm’s way by keeping them off the battlefield. They will also allow for military decisions to be made at superhuman speed, allowing for radically improved defensive capabilities.
Currently, semi-autonomous weapons, like loitering munitions that track and detonate themselves on targets, require a “human in the loop.” They can recommend actions but require their operators to initiate them.
This article was republished with permission from The Conversation, a news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. It represents the research-based findings and thoughts of, James Dawes, Professor, Macalester College.
By contrast, fully autonomous drones, like the so-called “drone hunters” now deployed in Ukraine, can track and disable incoming unmanned aerial vehicles day and night, with no need for operator intervention and faster than human-controlled weapons systems.
Calling for a Timeout
Critics like The Campaign to Stop Killer Robots have been advocating for more than a decade to ban research and development of autonomous weapons systems. They point to a future where autonomous weapons systems are designed specifically to target humans, not just vehicles, infrastructure and other weapons. They argue that wartime decisions over life and death must remain in human hands. Turning them over to an algorithm amounts to the ultimate form of digital dehumanization.
Together with Human Rights Watch, The Campaign to Stop Killer Robots argues that autonomous weapons systems lack the human judgment necessary to distinguish between civilians and legitimate military targets. They also lower the threshold to war by reducing the perceived risks, and they erode meaningful human control over what happens on the battlefield.
This composite image shows a ‘Switchblade’ loitering munition drone launching from a tube and extending its folded wings. U.S. Army AMRDEC Public Affairs
The organizations argue that the militaries investing most heavily in autonomous weapons systems, including the U.S., Russia, China, South Korea and the European Union, are launching the world into a costly and destabilizing new arms race. One consequence could be this dangerous new technology falling into the hands of terrorists and others outside of government control.
The updated Department of Defense directive tries to address some of the key concerns. It declares that the U.S. will use autonomous weapons systems with “appropriate levels of human judgment over the use of force.” Human Rights Watch issued a statement saying that the new directive fails to make clear what the phrase “appropriate level” means and doesn’t establish guidelines for who should determine it.
But as Gregory Allen, an expert from the national defense and international relations think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies, argues, this language establishes a lower threshold than the “meaningful human control” demanded by critics. The Defense Department’s wording, he points out, allows for the possibility that in certain cases, such as with surveillance aircraft, the level of human control considered appropriate “may be little to none.”
The updated directive also includes language promising ethical use of autonomous weapons systems, specifically by establishing a system of oversight for developing and employing the technology, and by insisting that the weapons will be used in accordance with existing international laws of war. But Article 36’s Moyes noted that international law currently does not provide an adequate framework for understanding, much less regulating, the concept of weapon autonomy.
The current legal framework does not make it clear, for instance, that commanders are responsible for understanding what will trigger the systems that they use, or that they must limit the area and time over which those systems will operate. “The danger is that there is not a bright line between where we are now and where we have accepted the unacceptable,” said Moyes.
Impossible Balance?
The Pentagon’s update demonstrates a simultaneous commitment to deploying autonomous weapons systems and to complying with international humanitarian law. How the U.S. will balance these commitments, and if such a balance is even possible, remains to be seen.
The International Committee of the Red Cross, the custodian of international humanitarian law, insists that the legal obligations of commanders and operators “cannot be transferred to a machine, algorithm or weapon system.” Right now, human beings are held responsible for protecting civilians and limiting combat damage by making sure the use of force is proportional to military objectives.
If and when artificially intelligent weapons are deployed on the battlefield, who should be held responsible when needless civilian deaths occur? There isn’t a clear answer to that very important question.
MCLEAN, Va., Feb. 15, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — V2X, Inc., (NYSE: VVX), a leading provider of critical mission solutions and support to defense clients globally, will report 2022 fourth quarter and full year financial results on Thursday, March 2, 2023, after market close. Senior management will conduct a conference call at 4:30 p.m. ET that same day.
U.S.-based participants may dial in to the conference call at 877-506-6380, while international participants may dial 412-542-4198. A live webcast of the conference call as well as an accompanying slide presentation will be available on the V2X Investor Relations website at http://investors.vectrus.com.
A replay of the conference call will be posted on the V2X website shortly after completion of the call and will be available for one year. A telephonic replay will also be available through March 16, 2023, at 844-512-2921 (domestic) or 412-317-6671 (international) with passcode 10174938.
ABOUT V2X V2X is a leading provider of critical mission solutions and support to defense clients globally, formed by the 2022 merger of Vectrus and Vertex to build on more than 120 combined years of successful mission support. The Company delivers a comprehensive suite of integrated solutions across the operations and logistics, aerospace, training and technology markets to national security, defense, civilian and international clients. Our global team of approximately 14,000 employees brings innovation to every point in the mission lifecycle, from preparation, to operations, to sustainment, as they tackle the most complex challenges with agility, grit and dedication.
SAN DIEGO, Feb. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), a leading National Security Solutions provider, announced today that it will publish financial results for the fourth quarter and Fiscal Year End of 2022 after the close of market on Thursday, February 23rd. Management will discuss the Company’s operations and financial results in a conference call beginning at 2:00 p.m. Pacific (5:00 p.m. Eastern).
The call will be available at www.kratosdefense.com. Participants may register for the call using this Online Form. Upon registration, all telephone participants will receive the dial-in number along with a unique PIN that can be used to access the call. For those who cannot access the live broadcast, a replay will be available on Kratos’ website.
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:KTOS) develops and fields transformative, affordable technology, platforms and systems for United States National Security related customers, allies and commercial enterprises. Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technology for these industries are rapidly brought to market through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive research and streamlined development processes. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we specialize in unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, hypersonic systems, training, combat systems and next generation turbo jet and turbo fan engine development. For more information go to www.KratosDefense.com.
MCLEAN, Va., Jan. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — V2X, Inc., (NYSE: VVX), a leading provider of critical mission solutions and support to defense clients globally, announced that on December 30, 2022, the company made a $25 million prepayment on its $185 million Second Lien Term Loan.
“We are pleased to announce the $25 million prepayment of our Second Lien Term Loan, which demonstrates our commitment to lowering interest expense and increasing returns to shareholders,” said Susan Lynch, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. “We continue to see opportunities to further improve the company’s cost of capital and drive additional interest expense savings.”
ABOUT V2X V2X is a leading provider of critical mission solutions and support to defense clients globally, formed by the 2022 merger of Vectrus and Vertex to build on more than 120 combined years of successful mission support. The Company delivers a comprehensive suite of integrated solutions across the operations and logistics, aerospace, training and technology markets to national security, defense, civilian and international clients. Our global team of approximately 15,000 employees brings innovation to every point in the mission lifecycle, from preparation, to operations, to sustainment, as they tackle the most complex challenges with agility, grit and dedication.
SAN DIEGO, Jan. 10, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a leading National Security Solutions provider, announced today that its Defense & Rocket System Services (DRSS) Division, in collaboration with Kratos’ Unmanned Systems Division, has received a contract from its prime teammate and partner Leidos to support the Expendable Hypersonic Multi-Mission ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and Strike Program, known as Mayhem. This new contract award will support the Air Force Research Laboratory’s (AFRL) development of an air-breathing hypersonic weapon system over its initial 51-month period of performance. The initial task order will conduct the System Requirements Review (SRR) and Conceptual Design Review (CoDR) in a Digital Engineering (DE) environment.
In partnership with Leidos, Kratos will serve as a member of the System Design Agent (SDA) team for the Mayhem program, which also includes Calspan and Draper. The SDA’s goal is to design a system that allows rapid relevant technology insertions utilizing the expertise and capabilities from a variety of industry partners. The role of the SDA for this program will also include bringing the best of industry together to perform research and development necessary for production of air-breathing multi-mission hypersonic system prototypes. The SDA will oversee designs, prototypes, and tests to ultimately produce and deliver a technical data package for high performance, relevant hypersonic weapon systems.
Air-breathing hypersonic systems use scramjet engines to generate thrust, propelling the vehicle across long distances at speeds greater than Mach 5. The SDA team is tasked with designing and developing a large-class version that surpasses current air-breathing systems in both range and payload capacity and is responsible for delivering a hypersonic system design to include airframe, propulsion system, booster, avionics, and vehicle subsystems.
“This opportunity will provide a unique capability for our Warfighters, and we’re excited to be part of the new Mayhem program. As a critical part of the SDA team, Kratos will drive mission success by leveraging our flight-proven agile digital engineering principles and extensive experience in high performance propulsion, hypersonic, and air vehicle design,” said Dave Carter, President of DRSS. “Kratos has successfully developed and flown several hypersonic “systems” over the last decade, and our internally funded hypersonic investments in unique systems, including Zeus and Erinyes are beginning to pay dividends in important national security solutions.”
Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos, said “Kratos’ mission is to be a disruptive transformation agent to the U.S. National Security industrial base and market, rapidly designing, developing, producing and fielding affordable systems and technology. The Mayhem Hypersonic Systems program award with our strategic partner Leidos is a recent representative example of our continued success.”
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:KTOS) develops and fields transformative, affordable technology, platforms and systems for United States National Security related customers, allies and commercial enterprises. Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technology for these industries are rapidly brought to market through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive research and streamlined development processes. At Kratos, affordability is a technology and we specialize in unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, hypersonic systems, training, combat systems and next generation turbo jet and turbo fan engine development. For more information go to www.KratosDefense.com.
Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 26, 2021, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a leading National Security Solutions provider, announced today that it has recently received an approximate $13 million potential value, Single Award Contract for electronic warfare related system products and solutions. The contract is expected to be incrementally funded over the relative periods of performance. Kratos is a technology company in the National Security and commercial market areas, providing hardware, products, systems and solutions for hypersonics, ballistic missile defense, space and satellite communication, engine and propulsion, unmanned aerial drone, cyber warfare and other areas. Work under this program award will be performed at secure Kratos engineering and production facilities. Due to competitive, security related and other considerations, no additional information will be provided related to this contract award.
Yonah Adelman, President of Kratos Microwave Electronic Division (KMED), said, “KMED is a leading technology and product supplier supporting missile, radar, command, control, communications, space, satellite and other systems, and our entire organization is proud to work with this important National Security related customer.”
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:KTOS) develops and fields transformative, affordable technology, platforms and systems for United States National Security related customers, allies and commercial enterprises. Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technology for these industries are rapidly brought to market through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive research and streamlined development processes. At Kratos, affordability is a technology and we specialize in unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, hypersonic systems, training, combat systems and next generation turbo jet and turbo fan engine development. For more information go to www.KratosDefense.com.
Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 26, 2021, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 14, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a leading National Security Solutions provider, announced today that it has received the initial $30 million in funding on a potential $250 million Command, Control, Communication, Computing, Combat System Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) program. The new contract is single award to Kratos. Kratos is a technology company in the National Security market and a leading provider of systems, subsystems, components and solutions for mission critical programs, including in the unmanned aerial drone, hypersonic, space, satellite communication, propulsion system, cyber warfare and microwave electronic areas. Work under this new program award will be performed at secure Kratos engineering and manufacturing facilities. Due to competitive, security and other considerations, no additional information will be provided related to this program award.
Yonah Adelman, President of Kratos Microwave Electronic Division (KMED), said, “Our entire division has been working for an extended period to be successful on this competitive new program opportunity, now the largest single program award in KMED’s history. As we end 2022 and begin 2023, KMED has a record backlog of approximately 2X Revenue, we are in pursuit of additional new program opportunities, and we are positioned for sustained future organic growth.”
Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos, said, “Yonah and his team’s success on this new, mission critical, National Security related program opportunity is representative of Kratos’ successful strategy of providing leading edge disruptive technology products and systems to our customers at an affordable cost. Kratos is positioned for additional expected new program awards in the microwave, hypersonic, satellite communication, propulsion system, drone and other areas.”
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:KTOS) develops and fields transformative, affordable technology, platforms and systems for United States National Security related customers, allies and commercial enterprises. Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technology for these industries are rapidly brought to market through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive research and streamlined development processes. At Kratos, affordability is a technology and we specialize in unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, hypersonic systems, training, combat systems and next generation turbo jet and turbo fan engine development. For more information go to www.KratosDefense.com.
Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 26, 2021, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.
