U.S. Department of Defense, Defense Information Systems Agency DISN Program

The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is responsible for planning, implementation and operation of command, control, communications, and information systems that serve the needs of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

With the Defense Information Systems Network (DISN) program, DISA is increasing the bandwidth of its global defense network.  DISN is supporting 'Internet-like' capabilities over state-of-the-art optical networking technology to implement a core network that interconnects critical DoD and intelligence facilities throughout the world.  The use of advanced optical networking technologies from Ciena will help eliminate limited bandwidth as a concern for these locations, while the embedded IP router networks will facilitate IP-based, network-centric operations.  When complete, the network will interconnect over 90 locations globally and will support up to 700 additional locations that access the network via carrier access services.

DISA selected Ciena’s CoreStream® Optical Transport System solution for its Optical Transmission System, the underlying long-haul Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) system that provides 10G wavelength connectivity and forms the foundation of the DISN.   CoreStream effectively meets the program’s stringent standards for technology and value, and offers the features required to ensure high availability and reliability across the network’s physically diverse routes. 

DISA continues to drive implementation and turn-up of the DISN network in accordance with its aggressive schedule.  To date, Ciena has met all required delivery dates for testing and for field deployment in accordance with the program schedule.   Additionally, Ciena has proven its ability to team with business partners and interoperate with systems of other technology providers on the program.  Ciena also delivered on the program’s critical Integrated Logistics Support requirements, which include training, maintenance planning, documentation, manufacturing and distribution.  With its support of the DISN, Ciena demonstrates the capabilities and scale to deliver on a large program.