The U.S. Intelligence Community is deepening its partnership with industry as space-based imagery and intelligence becomes more vital to the evolving situation in Ukraine.
Specifically, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency has significantly increased its acquisition of electro-optical technology from commercial companies like BlackSky, Maxar and others.
During a hearing before the House Armed Services Committee’s subcommittee on strategic forces, NGA Deputy Director Tonya Wilkerson highlighted the role that industry-fueled space innovations are playing in today’s geopolitical environment.
Tonya Wilkerson is slated to keynote GovCon Wire Events’ 2nd Annual IC Acquisition and Technology Innovation Summit on May 4. Register here.
“[Geospatial Intelligence] has been a central element of our nation’s understanding of the Russia-Ukraine crisis,” explained Wilkerson, a 2022 Wash100 Award recipient. “NGA is closely monitoring events in Ukraine while we provide partners across the globe access to numerous sources of intelligence, including commercial space-based imagery.”
A more robust partnership between public and private space organizations strategically aligns with the IC’s broader science and technology needs. Space is listed as a top priority in the Office of the Director of National Intelligence’s S&T Investment Landscape document, which defines the IC’s technology priorities and challenges while urging industry to help fill the gaps.
To learn more about the Intelligence Community’s current investment strategies and high-priority procurement areas, join the Second Annual IC Acquisition and Technology Innovation Summit hosted by GovCon Wire Events on May 4.
NGA’s Tonya Wilkerson, Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence Dr. Stacey Dixon and the National Security Agency’s Greg Smithberger will keynote the summit. The event will also feature a roster of expert panelists from government and industry. Registrations are open now!
