Release – Kratos’ OpenSpace® Satellite Ground Platform Achieves MEF 3.0 Carrier Ethernet Certification

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October 10, 2023 at 8:00 AM EDT

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Industry First for a Satellite Ground System will Dramatically Enhance Satellite Communications Integration with Global Telecom Networks

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 10, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a technology company in Defense, National Security and Global Markets, announced today that its OpenSpace® Platform is the first commercially available, fully virtualized satellite ground system to achieve MEF 3.0 Carrier Ethernet certification. The OpenSpace Platform enables satellite operators to deliver and manage their services for applications including communications, MilSatcom, earth observation, remote sensing and more. Entirely software-defined and using the same industry standards adopted by global terrestrial and mobile network carriers, such as MEF’s Carrier Ethernet (CE) standard, OpenSpace makes satellite service networks interoperate seamlessly with terrestrial and cellular transport networks.

The convergence of satellite and telecom networks is predicted to lead to revenue gains of $35 billion by 2035 according to the GSMA, a global organization unifying the mobile ecosystem. Standards such as Carrier Ethernet play a critical role in this convergence by enabling satellite and telecommunications to integrate more easily. This convergence will benefit both industries: enabling terrestrial network providers to reach remote users who are inaccessible through fiber or cellular technologies while expanding the addressable market for satellite communications.

“Global communications carriers have traditionally viewed satellite as the ‘transport of last resort,’” according to Greg Quiggle, Senior Vice President of Product Management at Kratos. “The MEF 3.0 Carrier Ethernet certification validates that the OpenSpace Platform meets the highest telecom and cloud industry interconnectivity standards. With OpenSpace, satellite operators can mainstream their services for dynamic, performance-enhanced, orchestrated delivery through global telecom networks.”

MEF is a global industry association of network, cloud, security, and technology providers accelerating enterprise digital transformation. MEF 3.0 certifications offer a method for industry organizations to confirm compliance with industry-led MEF 3.0 standards for services, and the technology used to enable those services. OpenSpace is the first commercially available satellite communications ground system to be certified MEF 3.0 CE compliant.

Intelsat, one of the world’s largest commercial satellite operators, will employ the OpenSpace Platform as part of the advanced network being built to deliver services over their new family of software-defined satellites. According to Carmel Ortiz, Senior Vice President of Technology and Innovation at Intelsat, “Intelsat was the first GEO satellite operator to achieve MEF 3.0 Carrier Ethernet certification for our services, so we are very pleased to see OpenSpace meet the same standard, supporting our efforts toward end-to-end network interoperability. It also represents an important milestone for OpenSpace, demonstrating the ability to support interoperable service offerings in mobility and the eventual migration to 5G services.”

To receive MEF’s CE 3.0 certification for the OpenSpace Platform, Kratos passed a comprehensive set of test cases that ensure interoperability in a multi-vendor global network environment. The certification validates that the Platform supports the delivery of a broad range of MEF 3.0 portfolio of services including E-Line (point-to-point) and E-Tree (multipoint service) and operator services including Access E-Line (point-to-point).

According to Kevin Vachon, Chief Operating Officer, MEF, “Companies like Kratos understand the value that certification provides—simplified, pre-validated functionality for buyers and simplified, frictionless implementation and partnering. Achieving MEF 3.0 Carrier Ethernet certification is a step towards enabling the more seamless delivery of satellite services across global provider networks. Telecommunications operations require the service automation, scalability and end-to-end QoS and SLA visibility that Carrier Ethernet brings to network operations. We are delighted to see Kratos achieve MEF 3.0 certification.”

For more about OpenSpace dynamic ground visit: https://www.kratosdefense.com/Satcom.
For more information about telecom and satellite network integration, read NSR’s (an Analysys Mason company) white paper: https://www.kratosdefense.com/carrier-ethernet.

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) is a technology company that develops and fields transformative, affordable systems, products and solutions for United States National Security, 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 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.

Press Contact:
Yolanda White
858-812-7302 Direct

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com

Source: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Cisco to Acquire Cybersecurity Firm Splunk in $28 Billion Cash Deal

Cisco Systems announced Thursday it will acquire cybersecurity company Splunk in an all-cash deal valued at around $28 billion. The acquisition, Cisco’s largest ever, aims to expand its presence in the security software market and boost recurring revenue streams.

Under the agreement, Cisco will pay $157 per share to buy Splunk, representing a premium of over 20% to Splunk’s recent stock price. Splunk shares jumped 21% on the news, while Cisco stock slipped nearly 5%.

The network gear giant has been on an acquisition spree lately to grow its software offerings. Splunk provides data analytics software and services focused on security, internet of things and infrastructure monitoring.

Take a look at One Stop Systems Inc., a company that designs and manufactures innovative AI Transportable edge computing modules and systems, and data recording software for AI workflows.

Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins said Splunk’s data capabilities combined with Cisco’s network telemetry presents an opportunity for more AI-enabled security solutions. The deal is expected to close in late 2024 after clearing regulatory approvals.

Cisco aims to leverage Splunk’s analytics tools to improve threat detection and better predict cyber risks. Splunk’s software is used by over 9,000 customers including over 90 of the Fortune 100. The acquisition provides Cisco an avenue into more subscription-based software sales.

The company said it expects the deal to be cash flow positive and accretive to gross margins within the first year post-closing. Cisco forecasts the acquisition boosting adjusted earnings per share starting in the second year.

Splunk CEO Gary Steele will join Cisco’s executive leadership team once the merger is finalized and report directly to Robbins. Together the companies aim to become a leading force in security infrastructure.

The acquisition reflects Cisco’s ongoing shift toward software and subscription revenue. It provides both an expanded customer base and advanced analytics capabilities around security, core focuses for Cisco. The company will fund the sizable purchase through cash reserves and new debt financing.

Release – Kratos Expands Global Space Domain Awareness Network with New Capabilities in India

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June 22, 2023 at 8:00 AM EDT

SAN DIEGO, June 22, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets, announced an expansion of its Space Domain Awareness (SDA) network locations into India. Kratos’ SDA network monitors the behavior of space-based radio frequency (RF) signals to identify critical information about satellites in orbit, such as their position, maneuvering, health, proximity to other satellites and more. It is the world’s largest global RF sensor network providing commercially available SDA services in all segments: orbital, link and terrestrial.

Recent strategic installations within the Asia Pacific region including the new India-based facility have increased Kratos’ global satellite tracking coverage by over 30 percent. The sensor network can offer SDA services in real-time for the full 360-degree GEO belt. Growth in the network supports a variety of services for international defense, civilian government and commercial customers, including development efforts from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s NOAA Office of Space Commerce to provide basic space situational awareness safety information and services through the Traffic Coordination System for Space. Kratos was the recipient of one of five commercial data contracts NOAA awarded for GEO space object tracking data last year.

Kratos’ SDA network includes over twenty worldwide sites hosting more than 140 fixed and steerable RF sensors and antennas. It can track and detect space vehicles in the GEO belt with great accuracy (closer than 100m) and in real-time as satellites maneuver frequently. Real-time detection gives the ability to adequately react to spacecraft anomalies or threats to nearby satellites.

Frank Backes, Senior VP of Kratos Federal Space said, “There are over 500 operational satellites in GEO. Many governments and commercial organizations rely on Kratos to enhance and augment their awareness of activity in the space domain. Our new India installation is important to expanding regional coverage.”

The Kratos SDA network supplies intelligence across all areas of the SDA mission through a variety of available services, among them signal characterization, interference mitigation, transmitter geolocation and more. Kratos’ satellite communications experts manage the 24/7 network operations center with coverage of L, S, C, X, and Ku bands.

Kratos’ 24/7 network operations center uses their sensor network to identify, monitor and manage global RF behavior, available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1c6a22f3-b695-4e77-b098-144fe453ddb8

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 the 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 http://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.

Press Contact:
Yolanda White
858-812-7302 Direct

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com

Release – Kratos and ALL.SPACE to Work Together to Develop Advanced Terminal Solutions for Software-Defined Satellite Ground Systems

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April 17, 2023 at 8:00 AM EDT

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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

Kratos Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com

ALL.SPACE Press Contact:
Anne Wainscott-Sargent
404-435-5784
media@all.space

Source: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Release – Kratos Introduces the Satellite Industry’s First Open Edge Terminal for Satellite Communications and Other Applications

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February 22, 2023 at 8:00 AM EST

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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.

For more information about OpenEdge visit: https://www.KratosDefense.com/OpenEdge
For more about OpenSpace dynamic ground visit: https://www.KratosDefense.com/OSP

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.

Press Contact:
Yolanda White
858-812-7302 Direct

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com

Source: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Release – Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Schedules Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year End 2022 Earnings Conference Call for Thursday, February 23rd

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February 14, 2023 at 8:00 AM EST

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.

Press Contact:
Yolanda White
858-812-7302 Direct

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com


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Source: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Release – Kratos Receives Approximate $13 Million Potential Value Electronic Warfare System Single Award Contract

Research, News, and Market Data on KTOS

December 19, 2022 at 8:00 AM EST

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.

Press Contact:
Yolanda White
858-812-7302 Direct

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com 

Source: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Release – Kratos Receives Initial $30 Million Funding on Potential $250 Million C5ISR Single Award Production Program

Research, News, and Market Data on KTOS

December 14, 2022 at 8:00 AM EST

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.

Press Contact:
Yolanda White
858-812-7302 Direct

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com

Source: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Release – Kratos Continues Leadership in Satellite Ground Segment Modernization with Introduction of Virtual Channelizer and Combiner

Research, News, and Market Data on KTOS

November 29, 2022 at 8:00 AM EST

Virtualized and Orchestrated Products Support the Dynamic Needs of Today’s Software-Defined Payloads and Multi-Orbit Constellations

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 29, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a leading National Security Solutions provider announced today the general availability of its virtual OpenSpace Channelizer and Combiner for satellite ground operations. The products are used to split and combine digitized RF signals for more effective downlink and uplink, especially to support the advanced capabilities of next generation software-defined satellites and LEO constellations.   For example, to support increasing customer demand or to address potential cases of interference, a high bandwidth signal from a software-defined satellite can be split into smaller signals and routed across the ground dynamically for service delivery or for RF analysis.

The OpenSpace Channelizer and Combiner are completely virtualized running on general purpose compute, replacing the racks of proprietary RF analog devices such as splitters and dividers that constitute today’s ground systems. Analog hardware components are not capable of keeping up with the faster demands growing in the space layer, such as high throughput spot beams, multi-orbit constellations and programmable payloads. For example, it can take days, weeks and sometimes months to make configuration changes to hardware, often requiring technicians to fly to remote locations to re-cable and install hardware in teleports. As software, however, the OpenSpace Channelizer and Combiner enable configuration and reconfiguration in just seconds in order to adapt to changing mission conditions such as interference or to support changing customer service levels.

The OpenSpace Channelizer and Combiner go beyond simple virtualization. They are orchestrated together with any standards-based digitizer and with other OpenSpace Platform ground functions to support automation and the quick provisioning of new services across the ground segment, including needed uplink/downlink functions. Virtual elements can be spun up for new missions on the fly and when no longer needed, spun down so the resources can be used for other operations.

The OpenSpace Channelizer and Combiner support a variety of satellite use cases for applications in two-way satellite communication (SATCOM) services, Earth Observation and Remote Sensing (EO/RS), and Telemetry, Tracking & Command (TT&C). Intelsat, the world’s largest commercial satellite operator, will be among the first users of the OpenSpace Channelizer and Combiner for SATCOM. In May of this year Intelsat announced it would use Kratos’ OpenSpace Platform to support its coming software-defined satellites and supporting ground network.

“We are supporting our customers growing connectivity needs for high-speed and reliable coverage on a global scale by enabling software-defined capabilities across our network,” commented Carmel Ortiz, VP of Systems Innovation at Intelsat. “Working in concert with our dynamic satellites, the OpenSpace Channelizer and Combiner as part of the OpenSpace Platform will help us accelerate the provisioning of new connectivity services and respond to traffic spikes in a matter of seconds.”

“The OpenSpace Channelizer and Combiner are available today to support the satellite ground systems movement toward digital transformation,” explained Christopher Boyd, Vice President of Product Management at Kratos. “The OpenSpace Platform is a fully digital gateway solution with digitizers that route IF signals from antennas across the ground system using virtualized channelizers/combiners to modem service chains that process the signals. The fully digital and software-based approach enables OpenSpace to be deployed in a single teleport or scaled across multiple teleports and data centers depending on service scale requirements.”

About 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: https://www.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.

Press Contact:
Yolanda White
858-812-7302 Direct

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com

Source: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Release – Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Schedules Third Quarter 2022 Earnings Conference Call for Thursday, November 3rd

Research, News, and Market Data on KTOS

October 26, 2022 at 8:00 AM EDT

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 26, 2022 (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 third quarter of 2022 after the close of market on Thursday, November 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) 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.

Press Contact:
Yolanda White
858-812-7302 Direct

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com 

Source: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Detecting Deepfake Voice is Now Crucial to Security

Image Credit: Kenya Allmond (Flickr)

Deepfake Audio Has a Tell – Researchers Use Fluid Dynamics to Spot Artificial Imposter Voices

Imagine the following scenario. A phone rings. An office worker answers it and hears his boss, in a panic, tell him that she forgot to transfer money to the new contractor before she left for the day and needs him to do it. She gives him the wire transfer information, and with the money transferred, the crisis has been averted.

The worker sits back in his chair, takes a deep breath, and watches as his boss walks in the door. The voice on the other end of the call was not his boss. In fact, it wasn’t even a human. The voice he heard was that of an audio deepfake, a machine-generated audio sample designed to sound exactly like his boss.

Attacks like this using recorded audio have already occurred, and conversational audio deepfakes might not be far off.

Deepfakes, both audio and video, have been possible only with the development of sophisticated machine learning technologies in recent years. Deepfakes have brought with them a new level of uncertainty around digital media. To detect deepfakes, many researchers have turned to analyzing visual artifacts – minute glitches and inconsistencies – found in video deepfakes.

Audio deepfakes potentially pose an even greater threat, because people often communicate verbally without video – for example, via phone calls, radio and voice recordings. These voice-only communications greatly expand the possibilities for attackers to use deepfakes.

To detect audio deepfakes, we and our research colleagues at the University of Florida have developed a technique that measures the acoustic and fluid dynamic differences between voice samples created organically by human speakers and those generated synthetically by computers.

Organic vs. Synthetic voices

Humans vocalize by forcing air over the various structures of the vocal tract, including vocal folds, tongue and lips. By rearranging these structures, you alter the acoustical properties of your vocal tract, allowing you to create over 200 distinct sounds, or phonemes. However, human anatomy fundamentally limits the acoustic behavior of these different phonemes, resulting in a relatively small range of correct sounds for each.

In contrast, audio deepfakes are created by first allowing a computer to listen to audio recordings of a targeted victim speaker. Depending on the exact techniques used, the computer might need to listen to as little as 10 to 20 seconds of audio. This audio is used to extract key information about the unique aspects of the victim’s voice.

The attacker selects a phrase for the deepfake to speak and then, using a modified text-to-speech algorithm, generates an audio sample that sounds like the victim saying the selected phrase. This process of creating a single deepfaked audio sample can be accomplished in a matter of seconds, potentially allowing attackers enough flexibility to use the deepfake voice in a conversation.

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 Logan Blue, PhD student in Computer & Information Science & Engineering, University of Florida and Patrick Traynor, Professor of Computer and Information Science and Engineering, University of Florida.

Detecting Audio Deepfakes

The first step in differentiating speech produced by humans from speech generated by deepfakes is understanding how to acoustically model the vocal tract. Luckily scientists have techniques to estimate what someone – or some being such as a dinosaur – would sound like based on anatomical measurements of its vocal tract.

We did the reverse. By inverting many of these same techniques, we were able to extract an approximation of a speaker’s vocal tract during a segment of speech. This allowed us to effectively peer into the anatomy of the speaker who created the audio sample.

Deepfaked audio often results in vocal tract reconstructions that resemble drinking straws rather than biological vocal tracts. Logan Blue (The Conversation)

From here, we hypothesized that deepfake audio samples would fail to be constrained by the same anatomical limitations humans have. In other words, the analysis of deepfaked audio samples simulated vocal tract shapes that do not exist in people.

Our testing results not only confirmed our hypothesis but revealed something interesting. When extracting vocal tract estimations from deepfake audio, we found that the estimations were often comically incorrect. For instance, it was common for deepfake audio to result in vocal tracts with the same relative diameter and consistency as a drinking straw, in contrast to human vocal tracts, which are much wider and more variable in shape.

This realization demonstrates that deepfake audio, even when convincing to human listeners, is far from indistinguishable from human-generated speech. By estimating the anatomy responsible for creating the observed speech, it’s possible to identify the whether the audio was generated by a person or a computer.

Why this matters

Today’s world is defined by the digital exchange of media and information. Everything from news to entertainment to conversations with loved ones typically happens via digital exchanges. Even in their infancy, deepfake video and audio undermine the confidence people have in these exchanges, effectively limiting their usefulness.

If the digital world is to remain a critical resource for information in people’s lives, effective and secure techniques for determining the source of an audio sample are crucial.