Key Takeaways
- Viasat shares climbed over 10% on Tuesday, reaching $81.92—a level not seen in nearly seven years
- The company secured a $437.7 million contract alongside a partner from the U.S. Space Force for the PTS-G satellite initiative
- The firm’s SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) platform achieved 1,000 aircraft installations
- Year-over-year growth for SB-S has averaged 42%, with plans to reach 1,200 aircraft by late 2026
- Year-to-date gains stand at 118%, with Tuesday marking a fresh 52-week peak
Shares of Viasat (VSAT) rocketed more than 10% during Tuesday’s session, climbing to $81.92—a peak not witnessed in approximately seven years—following a pair of bullish developments announced on the same day.
The primary driver was a substantial $437.7 million award from the U.S. Space Force. Viasat, working alongside a partner, won the contract to deliver 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 the Space Systems Command based at Los Angeles Air Force Base.
The award followed a competitive bidding procedure.
Simultaneously, positive momentum emerged from Viasat’s aviation division. The company revealed that its SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) platform has now been deployed on 1,000 aircraft worldwide. This represents a significant benchmark, achieved through consistent expansion averaging 42% annually.
SB-S functions as an IP-driven satellite communication solution designed specifically for aviation use. The system enables direct connectivity between cockpits and both air traffic controllers and ground operations teams.
“This achievement highlights the growing demand for SB-S as carriers increasingly seek reliable, certified connectivity solutions to enhance flight safety and operational efficiency,” said Joel Klooster, Senior Vice President, Aircraft Operations & Safety at Viasat.
Klooster further noted that the platform is “creating a sustainable foundation of long-term value for our aviation clients and for Viasat.”
Dual Catalysts Drive Momentum Across Defense and Commercial Sectors
The coincidental timing of both announcements on a single trading day amplified investor enthusiasm. Viasat has set its sights on surpassing 1,200 aircraft equipped with SB-S before 2026 concludes. Based on current adoption trends, this objective appears achievable.
SB-S technology also underpins 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 attention came from NASA’s Moon Base presentation, which took place Tuesday at 2:00 PM ET. Viasat’s satellite infrastructure plays a role in space communications initiatives, making the event’s timing noteworthy for market participants tracking the stock.
Impressive Performance Throughout 2025
Viasat has delivered a remarkable 118% return since the start of January. Tuesday’s session produced a new 52-week high for the equity.
Throughout the trailing twelve months, VSAT has experienced 67 single-day movements exceeding 5%. Such price swings are characteristic of this particular security. Within that framework, Tuesday’s advance was significant yet consistent with the stock’s historical behavior.
To put the rally in perspective: a $1,000 position established in Viasat five years ago would now be valued at approximately $1,650.
The Space Force agreement extends until March 2029, establishing a multi-year revenue stream from government contracts, while the SB-S platform continues expanding within commercial aviation markets.
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