Verizon Snags $678M DHS Network Deal

Verizon landed a $678.5 million contract with the Department of Homeland Security May 14 to deploy and manage a secure global IP network. The deal requires Verizon to combine the multiple separate wide area networks of the DHS' 22 agencies into one common IP network.

Over the life of the 10-year agreement, Verizon will also implement a security operations center for DHS' more than 5,000 global sites. In addition, Verizon will employ Emergency Communications Services, a new service available under the Networx Universal system to help agencies prepare for emergency responses to man-made and natural disasters.

"The Department of Homeland Security has entrusted Verizon Business to support its critical mission of protecting our country and its citizens," John Killian, president of Verizon Business, said in a statement.  "The advanced network that we deploy will serve as the vital springboard for the department's evolving requirements going forward."

Verizon won the deal under the U.S. General Services Administration's Networx Universal contract, the largest federal telecommunications ever awarded by the GSA. Networx Universal provides federal agencies with a common vehicle for purchasing networking, professional and technical services.

Previously, Verizon has been providing services to DHS under the GSA's Federal Telecommunications Service 2001 contract, the predecessor to the Networx program.