Trace Systems
Trace Systems is a privately held US defense contractor providing cybersecurity, satellite communications, cross-domain networking, and IT services to the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, and Department of Homeland Security through prime positions on major federal IDIQ and GWAC contracts.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded2006
- HeadquartersMclean, United States
- Headcount1–10
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingServices
What Trace Systems does
Trace Systems Inc. is a privately held US defense contractor that provides cybersecurity, satellite and tactical communications, networking, virtualization, and IT services to the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, and Department of Homeland Security. The company is headquartered in Tampa, Florida with a Virginia presence in McLean and Vienna, and supports global operations including forward-deployed positions in Afghanistan and partner-nation engagements in Iraq, Colombia, Kuwait, and Qatar.
The company's core technology is M-DRIVE (Modular Dynamically Reconfigurable Integrated Virtualized Environment), a proprietary, NSA-approved multi-tenant hyperconverged platform that hosts multiple coalition mission enclaves with SEC/REL-level isolation on a single rack-mountable or ruggedized tactical platform, delivering 30-50% reduction in server infrastructure footprint versus traditional approaches. This is augmented by a satellite communications product portfolio (Iridium 9575A phones, MissionLINK 350, Iridium Extreme PTT, SHOUT trackers, ASE docking stations, Distributed Tactical Communications System, and Starlink services) and cross-domain, zero-trust, and multi-enclave multi-tenancy capabilities.
Trace generates revenue as a prime contractor on federal IDIQ and GWAC contract vehicles — including Alliant 3, SHIELD, RS3, Seaport NXG, MPE-S, GTACS II, ENCORE III, CS3, and OASIS+ — through which it competes for task orders providing systems engineering, network operations, field support, technical refresh, deployable communications, and lifecycle sustainment. Equipment is sold through the DISA Storefront. The company's competitive position rests on its NSA-certified M-DRIVE platform, prime positions on more than 43 IDIQ/GWAC contracts, CMMC 2.0 Level 2 and CMMI DEV Level 3 certifications, and a leadership bench drawn heavily from senior US military communications and signals officers.
Trace Systems firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- Trace Systems
- Legal name
- Trace Systems Inc.
- Website
- https://tracesystems.com
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 2006
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 1–10 employees
- Short description
- Trace Systems is a privately held US defense contractor providing cybersecurity, satellite communications, cross-domain networking, and IT services to the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, and Department of Homeland Security through prime positions on major federal IDIQ and GWAC contracts.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
Where Trace Systems is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Mclean
- HQ country
- United States
- HQ region
- North America
Offices6 records
Markets served
Trace Systems business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Services
- Cost components
- Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure
Revenue model
- Government IT Services and Solutions: Prime contractor providing mission-critical IT, communications, and cybersecurity services to the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and Intelligence Community. Revenue generated through IDIQ contracts, task orders, andBlanket Purchasing Agreements (BPAs). Services include systems engineering, network operations, field support, and technical refresh.
- Satellite Communications Equipment Sales: Sales of satellite communications hardware including Iridium satellite phones (9575A, 9575 Extreme), docking stations, tracking devices (SHOUT series), and related equipment through DISA Storefront. Products support military and government customers globally.
- Deployable Communications Systems: Design, deployment, integration, and sustainment of deployable communications capabilities for disaster response and mission partner coordination. Provides system design, technical refresh, cybersecurity compliance, vehicle integration, and full lifecycle sustainment.
- Mission Partner Environment Services: Global support services to design, implement, and operate enterprise information sharing environments for DoD and coalition partners. Includes coalition information sharing, C2 integration, and network support.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | EMSS Equipment Provisioning and Customer Care contract for satellite communications equipment |
Go-to-market motion2 records
Distribution channels5 records
Marketing channels7 records
Trace Systems product offering
Product offeringCore offering
Trace Systems is a technology-first defense engineering firm that delivers mission support, digital modernization, and infrastructure solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and Intelligence Community. It sells satellite communications hardware products (Iridium-based devices, SHOUT trackers, docking stations) and deploys its proprietary M-DRIVE cross-domain virtualization platform, alongside professional services delivered through prime positions on government-wide IDIQ and GWAC contracts.
Product overview
Trace Systems is a technology-first defense engineering firm providing integrated mission systems and engineering support. The company offers a portfolio of satellite communications hardware products (including Iridium-based devices like MissionLINK, 9575A Bearcat, Iridium Extreme PTT, Iridium GO!, and SHOUT trackers) resold through its communications business, combined with M-DRIVE — its flagship cross-domain multi-tenant virtualization platform — as the core technology enabler. Services include Mission Partner Environment Services (MPE-S), cybersecurity, IT services, virtualization/cloud solutions, and infrastructure solutions supporting DoD, Department of Homeland Security, and Intelligence Community customers globally. The company operates a 24x7x365 Operations Control Center and maintains partnerships with Iridium, Starlink, EVERYWHERE Communications, and other satellite communication providers.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- M-DRIVE: Modular Dynamically Reconfigurable Integrated Virtualized Environment - a multi-tenant, hyperconverged (HCI) software-defined data center that hosts multiple coalition network enclaves on a single platform. The only NSA-approved system of its kind for Mission Partner Environment requirements.
- MissionLINK
- XF Solutions
Products and services
- M-DRIVE (Modular Dynamically Reconfigurable Integrated Virtualized Environment) Revolutionary cross-domain access solution providing multi-tenant network isolation through secure network virtualization on a single hyperconverged rack-mountable or ruggedized tactical platform, enabling rapid deployment and reconfiguration of mission enclaves for Mission Partner Environments.
- EMSS EPCC (Equipment Provisioning and Customer Care) Comprehensive order support service for all items covered under the U.S. Space Force EMSS ID/IQ contract, providing cradle-to-grave satellite communication services including unlimited fixed-price airtime, device sales and provisioning, and 24/7/365 dedicated help-desk support.
- Mission Partner Environment Services (MPE-S) $998 million contract providing the full range of global support services to design, implement, and operate the enterprise for DoD and mission partners, enabling collaboration between DoD and coalition partners connecting nearly 45,000 global users.
- Mission Support Services Integrated solutions and expert services including Assured Communications, Defensive Cyber Operations, Deployed Operations, IT Service Management, Mission Critical O&M, and Secure Life Cycle Logistics for defense and government customers.
- Digital Modernization Solutions Advanced digital architecture for modern data-driven operations including Distributed Edge Solutions, Cross Domain Solutions (M-DRIVE), Satellite & RF Solutions, Coalition C5ISR, Multi-Orbit Integration, and Zero Trust implementations.
- Infrastructure Solutions Mission-ready systems including Data Center Solutions, Enterprise Architecture, Multi-Cloud/Hybrid Cloud, Network Engineering, Satellite Solutions, and Systems Engineering & Integration.
- Cybersecurity Solutions Critical infrastructure protection including Information Assurance, Zero Trust Security, Governance Risk and Compliance, Risk Management Framework, Identity/Credential/Access Management, and continuous monitoring capabilities.
- Information Technology Services Network and systems expertise from enterprise to edge supporting customers' missions globally, including Engineering and Operations, Data Center Operations, Service Desk Operations, Systems Administration, and Active Monitoring.
- Virtualization and Cloud Solutions Scalable, secure hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI), virtualized technologies, and private cloud solutions in enterprise and tactical environments, including Multi-Enclave Multitenancy, MLS, and Software Defined Networking.
- MissionLINK 350 Satellite communication device utilizing Iridium Certus constellation that spans 100% of the world, offering three simultaneous voice lines with Wi-Fi capability for up to five devices with third-party in-line encryption integration.
- 9575A EMSS Bearcat Satellite Phone Industrial-grade Iridium satellite phone with diamond tread and tapered grip design for superior ergonomics in demanding environments, providing proven reliability for government customers throughout the globe.
- Iridium Extreme PTT Ruggedized push-to-talk device supporting high-intensity users in harsh conditions with expanded loudspeaker, reinforced PTT button, and extended capacity battery; distributes Position Location Information into secured commercial Shepherd COP.
- Iridium GO! Compact and portable global voice and text messaging device with MIL-STD 810-F durability and IP65 rating, providing Wi-Fi connectivity for up to five mobile devices within approximately 30 meters.
- SHOUT TS R DOD Iridium Handheld Tracker with ultra-low power consumption (less than 35µA during sleep) and internal rechargeable Li-Ion battery, supporting 256-bit AES encrypted position reports for up to two months.
- Distributed Tactical Communications System (DTCS) Radio-only satellite communications device plus gooseneck antenna from L3Harris with OEM 1-year warranty, supporting tactical operations with extended warranty options.
- SHOUT tw IP67-rated messaging and tracking device using Iridium short burst data (SBD) service for GPS reports, two-way canned and free-text messages, and emergency notifications with ultra-low power consumption.
- Voyager ECK (Executive Communications Kit) Laptop-sized multi-enclave data capability kit with built-in cellular and Wi-Fi transport options for secure network access anywhere globally.
Quantifiable outcome
- 30-50% reduction in MPE server infrastructure footprint with M-DRIVE deployment
- +3 more outcomes
Companies that use Trace Systems
Customer profileNamed customers14 records
Segments5 records
Ideal customer profiles3 records
Trace Systems technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Integration8 records
AI capability5 records
Feature6 records
Trace Systems partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
Six partnerships are on record, tiered strategic, core and minor.
- C3EL, LLC (XF Solutions Joint Venture)strategicTrace formed joint venture with C3EL operating as XF Solutions, LLC. This small-business awardee enables Trace to compete for small-business task orders under MDA SHIELD program, expanding reach across Golden Dome enterprise.
- Starlink (SpaceX)coreDesignated as authorized reseller of Starlink high-speed internet for businesses, enterprises and government use. Partnership enables Trace to leverage Starlink's resilient global connectivity for multi-domain operations and bandwidth-constrained operators.
- LightGrid (HUBZone)minorTrace serves as mentor in All Small Mentor Protégé Program (ASMPP) joint venture with LightGrid, a HUBZone small business. IGS JV (mentored by Trace) won spot on DISA SETI $7.5B program.
- Intelligent WavescoreService-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business partner on EMSS Global Logistical Services Management (ELOG) contract. Trace served as Prime on predecessor DLOG program (2012-2017) and continues support through this partnership.
- IridiumcoreLong-term partner and reseller of Iridium global communications products. Trace serves as authorized reseller providing Iridium satellite phones (9575A, 9575 Extreme), tracking devices, and related equipment to DoD and government customers through EMSS program.
- EVERYWHERE CommunicationsstrategicProud distributor of EVERYWHERE Communications platform delivering global location, messaging, and SOS capabilities for total situational awareness using Iridium satellite network and Garmin devices.
Scale indicators16 records
Recent moves6 records
Expansion highlights6 records
Trace Systems competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- Peraton: Mid-large defense IT services firm specializing in intelligence, space, cyber, and DoD mission systems. Closest scale and business-model peer to Trace, with significant MPE/SATCOM-adjacent work.
- Kratos Defense & Security Solutions: Mid-tier defense technology firm focused on tactical comms, SATCOM, and unmanned systems. Comparable in scale and target customer set to Trace with overlapping satcom terminal and ground systems offerings.
- ManTech (a CACI company): Mid-tier defense IT services firm with strong DoD and IC presence in C5ISR, cyber, and systems engineering. Directly comparable in size and program mix prior to CACI acquisition.
Broad incumbents
- L3Harris Technologies: Defense electronics and tactical communications prime that supplies DTCS hardware to Trace and competes in tactical comms, SATCOM, and multi-domain programs.
- Leidos: Large-tier defense IT and C5ISR prime that competes with Trace on the same IDIQ vehicles (RS3, Alliant 3, SHIELD) and across DoD mission IT and intelligence programs. Significantly larger scale and incumbency on legacy DoD work.
- General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT): Defense IT prime and the source of the ENCORE III/ITES 3S business unit that Trace acquired in 2019. Competes across virtually all of Trace's major contract vehicles and represents the strategic ceiling on scale.
- Booz Allen Hamilton: Large defense and intel IT consulting prime with comparable work in cyber, C2, and digital modernization. Competes for Alliant 3, RS3 task orders and is a frequent recompete threat.
- SAIC: Defense IT services prime with deep DoD, intelligence, and federal civilian footprint; competes directly on RS3, Alliant 3, and MPE-style programs. Comparable in mission IT, networking, and cross-domain solutions to Trace.
- CACI International: Mid-to-large defense IT and signals intelligence prime with overlapping capabilities in C5ISR, cyber, and multi-domain operations. Acquired ManTech to scale into a similar profile to Trace's MPE-S and cross-domain business.
Others
- Viasat (defense satcom): Defense and government SATCOM systems provider whose products (and now those of Inmarsat) overlap with Trace's multi-orbit SATCOM portfolio. Acts as both a partner-adjacent provider and a competitor in DoD commercial satcom services.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat5 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
Trace Systems social profiles
Digital presenceTrace Systems compliance and trust
Trust signalCompliance2 records
Trace Systems financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Trace Systems leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles9 records
Trace Systems funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Trace Systems M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A1 record
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Trace Systems
What does Trace Systems do?
Trace Systems is a technology-first defense engineering firm that delivers mission support, digital modernization, and infrastructure solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and Intelligence Community. It sells satellite communications hardware products (Iridium-based devices, SHOUT trackers, docking stations) and deploys its proprietary M-DRIVE cross-domain virtualization platform, alongside professional services delivered through prime positions on government-wide IDIQ and GWAC contracts.
Is Trace Systems a public or private company?
Trace Systems is a private company. It is classified as founder individual operated bootstrapped and is currently operating.
When was Trace Systems founded?
Trace Systems was founded in 2006. It employs 1 to 10 people.
Where is Trace Systems based?
Trace Systems is headquartered in Mclean, United States, in the North America region.
How does Trace Systems make money?
Four revenue lines are on record. Government IT Services and Solutions are the primary driver. The others are satellite Communications Equipment Sales, deployable Communications Systems and mission Partner Environment Services.
Who are Trace Systems's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are Peraton, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions and ManTech (a CACI company). Broad incumbents are L3Harris Technologies, Leidos, General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), Booz Allen Hamilton, SAIC and CACI International. Viasat (defense satcom) is listed as an others.
Does Trace Systems have an API?
No public API is recorded for Trace Systems.