What Ultra Intelligence & Communications does

Ultra Intelligence & Communications (Ultra I&C) is a U.S.-headquartered, privately held defense technology company formed in 2020 when Advent International acquired Cobham's defense communications business and reorganized it under the Cobham Ultra Group. The company operates three primary business areas — Mission Solutions (mission software, edge compute, and encryption management), Tactical Communications (tactical SATCOM, beyond-line-of-sight troposcatter, situational awareness), and Crypto Solutions (edge encryption devices) — and serves U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, State Department, and allied defense forces including Canada, the UK, and Poland. Ultra I&C claims over 100 years of heritage and operates from headquarters in Austin with offices in Germantown, Huntsville, San Diego, Tampa, and multiple UK locations.

The company's technology stack spans AI/ML-powered multi-source data fusion (Rain), an autonomous AI agent for system management (Maxwell), a market-leading C2 gateway (ADSI) deployed at 12,500+ sites across 35+ countries, and SOSA-aligned 3U OpenVPX edge processors (Knox). Its encryption portfolio includes FIPS 140-2/140-3 validated, NSA CSfC certified, JITC certified, and Common Criteria certified COMSEC solutions (Argus, CARDS, CyberFence, Multi-Link Encryptor, MAXAM Tactical, MicroCrypto, Edge Security Module). The portfolio integrates with TAK, MIDS JTRS/LVT terminals, BATS-D, the Litening Pod family, L-3 ROVER units, 100+ radar formats, Starlink SATCOM, and platforms such as Hanwha's K239 Chunmoo.

Ultra I&C generates revenue through direct enterprise sales to U.S. and allied defense customers using government contracting vehicles (OTA, CRADAs, FMS), through a marketplace presence on CDAO Tradewinds, and through channel partners (e.g., Enamor International for Poland). Contract economics are quote-based and not publicly disclosed. In June 2026, Booz Allen Hamilton agreed to acquire the Mission Solutions business unit for $720 million (expected to close in Q2 FY2027), while the Tactical Communications and Crypto Solutions divisions continue operating under Advent ownership.

Name

Ultra Intelligence & Communications

Legal name

Ultra Intelligence & Communications

Website

https://ultra-ic.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

2020

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

501–1,000 employees

Short description

Ultra Intelligence & Communications, headquartered in Austin, Texas, is a privately held defense technology company that provides AI/ML-powered command-and-control, tactical communications, and certified encryption solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military forces worldwide.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Defense Command & Control Software

NAICS

Satellite Telecommunications (517410)

SIC

Communications Equipment, Nec (3669), Computer Communications Equipment (3576), Search, Detection, Navagation, Guidance, Aeronautical Sys (3812)

akta.pro primary industry

Secure Communications, Cryptography & Key Management Systems (IMABAOAK)

akta.pro secondary industries

Defense Communications (Secure Radios, SATCOM Terminals, Crypto) (IMABAGAG), Military Aerospace Communications, Datalinks & Networking (IMABAMAK), Intelligence (Strategic, Tactical & Technical) (BPAIAHAD), Cyber Defense, Offensive Cyber & Information Operations Systems (IMABAOAC)

Keywords

• Defense command and control
• Tactical communications systems
• Military encryption solutions
• AI intelligence fusion
• Edge computing defense

Headquarters

HQ city

Austin

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices10 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Software

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Supply Chain, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Defense Technology Products: Sale of mission-critical software, encryption, edge-compute and tactical communications products to defense forces. Revenue from product sales, integration, and sustainment services.
2. Government Contracts: Defense technology contracts with U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and allied forces. Includes software prototypes, OTA contracts, and Foreign Military Sales.
3. Software Licensing: Licensing of command and control software platforms like ADSI and Rain to defense customers.

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

Ultra Intelligence & Communications delivers AI/ML-enabled command and control platforms, tactical communications systems, and certified encryption/COMSEC products for U.S. and allied defense forces operating in contested environments. Its portfolio covers mission software (Rain, ADSI, ACTS, Maxwell, Apex), edge compute (Knox), encryption management (Argus, CARDS, CyberFence), tactical communications (Hunter SATCOM, SAMS, Archer troposcatter), and edge encryption (MAXAM Tactical, MicroCrypto, Multi-Link Encryptor) — sold predominantly to defense and government customers under long-cycle contracting.

Product overview

Ultra I&C delivers crypto solutions, mission software and tactical communications built to keep operations moving. The portfolio includes three core lines: Mission Software (Rain AI/ML fusion, ACTS tracking, Maxwell AI agent, ADSI C2 gateway, Apex mission stack, Jet training suite), Edge Compute (Knox multifunction processors), Encryption Management (Argus, CARDS, CyberFence), Tactical Communications (Hunter SATCOM terminals, SAMS situational awareness, Archer troposcatter), and Edge Encryption (MAXAM Tactical, Multi-Link Encryptor, MicroCrypto). Additional offerings include Critical Infrastructure Protection products (WiFiProtect, REWS, Edge Security Module) and dVDL for video data links. Products operate across air, land and maritime domains with modular, standards-aligned architecture supporting interoperability with existing military infrastructure.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Rain AI/ML-powered sense-making and data fusion platform that automatically pulls together data from multiple intelligence sources and platforms, analyzes it to identify threats, tracks movement and flags anomalies using machine learning, heuristics and anomaly detection. Targeted at defense intelligence operators across U.S. and allied forces.
• ACTS (Advanced Correlation and Tracking System) Multi-sensor correlation and tracking system that combines radar, surveillance and tracking data into a single real-time tactical picture using multi-hypothesis correlation with plug-and-play interface for U.S. and allied air defense operations.
• Maxwell AI Agent AI-powered agent that offloads routine cognitive tasks, translates intent into action, generates reports, performs post-event analysis, monitors system health, and can autonomously detect and repair misconfigurations for defense and mission operators.
• ADSI (Air Defense Systems Integrator) C2 gateway unifying disparate systems into real-time source of truth between radios, data links, legacy platforms and coalition networks, deployed at 12,500+ sites in 35+ countries with AI/ML capabilities (ADSI RAIN).
• Apex Mission Software Stack Software stack bringing mission applications, secure data management and AI-enabled tools into one modular environment for speed, flexibility and interoperability across command and control.
• Knox Multifunction Processors SOSA-aligned 3U OpenVPX multifunction processors delivering rugged, high-performance edge computing for air, land and maritime missions with AI/ML and sensor fusion capabilities.
• Argus Suite tracking, managing and securing tactical data links and equipment from production to end of life with centralized inventory, remote rekey, and management control for COMSEC operations.
• CARDS Automated web-based COMSEC inventory tracking system replacing manual processes with real-time visibility, control and NISPOM/32 CFR Part 117 compliance for security assets.
• CyberFence Multi-layer cybersecurity solution protecting critical edge devices with FIPS 140-3 certified encryption, deep packet inspection, and secure tunneling for U.S. military and critical infrastructure customers.
• Hunter Tactical SATCOM Terminals Family of rugged, rapidly deployable SATCOM terminals from sub-25-pound ULV manpack to 12-foot FA-370, certified across WGS, Inmarsat GX, SkyNet, Intelsat Flex and GovSat for tactical communications.
• SAMS (Situational Awareness Management System) Command center blending video, radar, audio and cybersecurity inputs into unified platform for real-time situational awareness with sensor-agnostic integration and self-healing resilient architecture.
• Archer Troposcatter System Beyond-line-of-sight troposcatter communications system providing advanced encryption and anti-jamming capabilities, deployable in under 15 minutes for contested-environment operations.
• Jet Tactical Data Link Training Suite All-in-one Tactical Data Link training suite for Joint Interface Control Officers enabling mission planning, simulation, rehearsal and troubleshooting without deploying live assets.
• WiFiProtect Secure wireless mesh network with AES-256 encryption, FIPS 140-2 and NSA CSfC certification, self-healing 802.11s mesh for resilient connectivity in non-line-of-sight environments for critical infrastructure customers.
• REWS (Radar Early Warning System) 360-degree situational awareness system for offshore energy platforms fusing radar, AIS, CCTV, ADSB and more with real-time alerts and incident replay capabilities.
• dVDL (Digital Video Data Link) Digital data link for Litening Pod family that securely transmits real-time imagery to L-3 ROVER terminals with AES-256 encryption, supporting air-to-ground operations.
• Edge Security Module Standalone COMSEC solution for integrating certified wired and wireless security into edge devices with FIPS 140-3 certified cryptographic functions and preloaded WiFiProtect and CyberFence firmware.
• MAXAM Tactical Drop-in replacement for KY-100 with hardware-based encryption supporting current security standards, utilizing Common Core Crypto (C3) platform with ITAR-free UK manufacturing for sovereign military communications.
• Multi-Link Encryptor Battle-tested encryption solution for military data links with BID/2200 cryptographic module accredited by NCSC, SECAN and NSA, supporting NATO and national standards with drop-in integration.
• MicroCrypto Low SWaP-C software-defined AES-256 encryption for non-High Grade tactical communications, designed for uncrewed systems including drones, ground systems, surface vessels and legacy sonobuoys.

Quantifiable outcome

• Shortened kill chain through AI/ML-powered threat detection and classification
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers8 records

Segments3 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration17 records

AI capability17 records

Feature19 records

Partnerships

Seven partnerships are on record, tiered major, core and supporting.

• Booz Allen HamiltonmajorOthers · 22 June 2026Booz Allen Hamilton entered into definitive agreement to acquire Ultra Mission Solutions for $720 million. Transaction expected to close in Q2 FY2027. Unit will operate as wholly owned subsidiary.
• Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity (MCTSSA)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 18 February 2026CRADA partnership for live all-digital kill chain demonstration with U.S. Marine Corps. Demonstration showcased AI/ML-powered sensor-to-effector capabilities supporting Force Design modernization and MAGTF C2 prototype.
• Hidden LevelcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 4 February 2026Ultra I&C demonstrated data movement mastery with Hidden Level at WEST 2026. Hidden Level provided real-time Airspace Monitoring Service (AMS) feed, which Ultra I&C's Rain software ingested and fused with additional inputs to create a single operational view for counter-UAS capability using Apple Vision Pro.
• Enamor InternationalcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 25 February 2025Contract awarded by Enamor International to provide remote rekey capabilities for Crypto Modernization Link-16 to Polish Armed Forces. Enamor serves as proven contractor to Polish Ministry of Defence.
• Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity (MCTSSA)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 14 January 2025CRADA partnership enabling critical data operations at Grey Flag 2024 maritime exercise. Ultra I&C deployed ADSI platform processing and distributing information through JREAP-C and Starlink SATCOM networks.
• Hanwha Defense USAcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 15 October 2024MOU signed to integrate Ultra I&C's ADSI C2 gateway with Hanwha's K239 Chunmoo rocket launcher system. Partnership aims to create integrated, interoperable and networked C2 architecture for Five Eyes alliance and beyond supporting CJADC2 concept.
• Hanwha Defense AustraliasupportingStrategic or Co-development Partner · 15 October 2024Part of the broader Hanwha partnership, focusing on Australian defense market and Land Systems programs.

Scale indicators7 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Thales Group: Thales is a leading European defense technology peer with strong overlap in tactical communications, secure radio, COMSEC/cryptography, and tactical data links for NATO and allied defense forces — directly comparable to Ultra I&C's MAXAM Tactical, Multi-Link Encryptor, and tactical radio portfolio.
• L3Harris Technologies: L3Harris is the most direct peer to Ultra I&C, with overlapping tactical communications (Harris radios), encryption (L3Harris Sierra), SATCOM terminals, and tactical data link product lines serving the same U.S. DoD and allied customer base. Both companies bid on Link-16, COMSEC, and integrated C2 programs.
• Leonardo DRS: Leonardo DRS is a mid-tier U.S. defense electronics peer with comparable tactical communications, sensor integration, and C2 offerings targeted at the same U.S. military services. Both companies compete on tactical edge computing and integrated sensor-to-effector programs.
• Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions: Curtiss-Wright is a defense electronics peer focused on rugged embedded computing, tactical communications, and C2 subsystems. Both companies target modular open architecture (SOSA, OpenVPX) programs across U.S. and allied forces.
• Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace: Kongsberg is a Nordic defense peer with comparable tactical communications, data links, and encrypted radio solutions for NATO and allied militaries. Both companies compete for Link-16, COMSEC, and integrated tactical C2 contracts across European and Five Eyes customers.
• Mercury Systems: Mercury Systems is a direct peer in rugged edge compute and mission-critical defense electronics, with comparable SOSA-aligned OpenVPX processing solutions that compete directly against Ultra I&C's Knox multifunction processors for airborne, ground, and maritime tactical applications.

Emerging players

• Anduril Industries: Anduril is a venture-backed emerging defense tech player competing in AI-enabled C2 (Lattice), autonomy, and counter-UAS — directly intersecting Ultra I&C's Rain/ADSI counter-UAS demonstrations. It represents a disruptive new entrant with significant capital and a software-first model.
• Palantir Technologies (Defense): Palantir's Gotham for Defense and AIP platforms target AI-enabled command and control, intelligence fusion, and operational planning — competitive adjacencies to Ultra I&C's Rain and ADSI offerings. Palantir has won major DoD AI/data platform contracts that compete for the same customer wallet.

Broad incumbents

• BAE Systems (Electronic Systems): BAE Systems is a global defense prime with substantial overlap in tactical communications, electronic warfare, COMSEC, and C4ISR solutions, serving the same U.S., UK, and allied defense customers. BAE's larger scale and broader portfolio position it as a broad incumbent competitor across Ultra I&C's product set.
• Northrop Grumman (C2 & Mission Systems): Northrop Grumman's Mission Systems and C2 divisions provide integrated C2, tactical data links, and COMSEC solutions across U.S. military services, competing for many of the same programs as Ultra I&C. As a Tier-1 prime, it represents a larger incumbent competitor with broader program-of-record incumbency.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses2 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights2 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/ultra-intelligence-communications

Compliance13 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles17 records

Subsidiaries2 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A1 record

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Ultra Intelligence & Communications