AT&T connects with Air Force network deal

AT&T Inc. will supply an Air Force agency with a secure data network under a new four-year, $16.5 million contract.

Under the terms of the agreement, AT&T Government Solutions of Vienna, Va., will provide the network for the Air Force Services Agency. The company said it will build a single cohesive network and transition all the agency's locations worldwide to it.

The Air Force Services Agency provides a range of support programs, such as troop support, dining facilities, libraries and fitness centers.

AT&T will deploy a secure IP virtual private network that works with Multiprotocol Label Switching. The network will enable the Air Force to integrate all 107 locations, including 22 outside the United States, into a single, streamlined IP communications platform with consistent standards and capabilities.

AT&T's network-based security will help the Air Force securely process millions of non-appropriated funds that are moved through the agency's banking system daily, the company said.

The four-year contract has six one-year options.

AT&T, of San Antonio, ranks No. 67 on Washington Technology's 2007 Top 100 list of the largest federal government prime contractors.