The US State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to India of Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) and related equipment for an estimated cost of US $131 million (approx. AU $204 million).
“The Indo-Pacific represents one of the most highly trafficked regions of the world, an epicenter of global trade with waters rich in resources. The sheer size of these waters, coupled with endless vessel activity, demands vigilant maritime observation,” Chief Growth Officer for HawkEye 360, Alex Fox, said in 2023. “HawkEye 360 is proud to support the IPMDA program and partner nations in their efforts to ensure stability and prosperity through shared maritime domain awareness.”
The Government of India has requested the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) to allow India to buy SeaVision software (including requested software enhancements); Technical Assistance Field Team (TAFT) training; remote software and analytic support; access to SeaVision documentation; and other related elements of logistics and program support.
The principal contractor will be Hawkeye 360, located in Herndon, Virginia, US. The company possesses satellites which provide precise mapping of radio frequency (RF) emissions. According to its website, Hawkeye 360's team has a patent for determining RF emitter locations based on multiple sensors.
The company focuses on geospatial information solutions. Hawkeye 360 collects RF data via its constellation of satellites in Low Earth Orbit.
In October 2023, Hawkeye 360 was awarded a US $12.25 million (approx. AU $19.1 million) Phase II contract by the US for the Indo-Pacific Partnership for IPMDA. Within that contract, the company shared satellite RF data, analytics and training to improve maritime domain awareness. It has been a commercial partner to the IPMDA program since late 2022.
The program focuses on providing shared technology, training, and insight into maritime activity across the Indo-Pacific region.