Key Takeaways
- Shares of Viasat climbed over 10% Tuesday, reaching a nearly 7-year peak of $81.92
- A $437.7 million Space Force contract was awarded to Viasat and a partner for the PTS-G satellite initiative
- The company’s SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) platform now serves 1,000 aircraft globally
- SB-S has experienced year-over-year growth averaging 42%, with projections targeting 1,200 installations by late 2026
- Year-to-date gains have reached 118%, with shares marking a fresh 52-week high on Tuesday
Shares of Viasat (VSAT) rallied over 10% during Tuesday’s session, climbing to $81.92—a level not seen in nearly seven years—following a pair of major announcements released on the same day.
The primary driver was a significant defense contract valued at $437.7 million from the U.S. Space Force. This award, shared between Viasat and a collaborating partner, supports the development of space vehicles for the Protected Tactical Satellite-Global (PTS-G) initiative. The scope includes design work and demonstration assistance extending through March 2029, overseen by Space Systems Command stationed at Los Angeles Air Force Base.
This contract followed a competitive bidding procedure.
Simultaneously, the company shared progress from its aviation division. Viasat revealed that its SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) platform has now been deployed across 1,000 aircraft worldwide. This achievement represents a significant benchmark, with the platform experiencing consistent growth of approximately 42% annually.
SB-S functions as an IP-driven satellite communication solution designed specifically for aviation use. The system enables direct connectivity between cockpit operations and both air traffic controllers and ground support teams.
“This milestone underscores the excitement for SB-S as airlines continue to look for proven, certified connectivity to improve flight safety and operational performance,” said Joel Klooster, Senior Vice President, Aircraft Operations & Safety at Viasat.
Klooster added that the service is “building a durable base of long-term value for both our aviation customers, and for Viasat.”
Dual Growth Vectors Driving Momentum
The simultaneous release of both developments on Tuesday amplified investor enthusiasm. Viasat has set a goal of exceeding 1,200 aircraft equipped with SB-S technology by the close of 2026. Based on current expansion rates, this objective appears achievable.
The SB-S platform also supports Iris, a collaborative air traffic management initiative developed with the European Space Agency. This partnership extends the system’s influence beyond traditional commercial airline applications.
Additional support for the stock came from NASA’s Moon Base presentation, which took place Tuesday at 2:00 PM ET. Given Viasat’s satellite infrastructure capabilities relevant to space communication initiatives, the event’s timing resonated with market participants tracking the stock.
Remarkable Year-to-Date Performance
Viasat shares have climbed 118% from the start of January. Tuesday’s session marked a new 52-week high for the equity.
Throughout the past twelve months, VSAT has recorded 67 daily movements exceeding 5%. This volatility pattern is characteristic of the stock’s trading behavior. Within this framework, Tuesday’s advance was significant yet consistent with historical patterns.
For perspective on the longer-term trajectory: an investor who allocated $1,000 to Viasat five years ago would currently hold approximately $1,650.
The Space Force agreement extends through March 2029, establishing a multi-year government revenue stream. Meanwhile, the SB-S platform continues expanding its commercial aviation footprint, creating dual growth channels for the company.
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