Unisys Obtains $84M IT Assistance Agreement from Defence


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Unisys Gains Defence IT Support Contract

Quick Summary

  • Unisys has obtained an $84 million IT support contract from Defence, succeeding Fujitsu as of March next year.
  • This contract centers on providing national deskside support for Defence personnel throughout Australia.
  • Defence intends to modernise its ICT strategies and onboard technical expertise internally.
  • The agreement with Unisys will extend through March 2028, with a potential four-year extension.

Unisys Obtains Defence IT Support Contract

Defence has re-engaged Unisys to deliver IT support services under an $84 million agreement, replacing the current provider, Fujitsu, commencing in March next year. This strategic decision aligns with Defence’s broader goal to modernise its information and communication technology (ICT) strategies and integrate technical expertise within the organisation.

Unisys Obtains $84M IT Assistance Agreement from Defence


Emphasis on Internal ICT Capabilities

The national deskside support (NDS) agreement encompasses IT support for Defence staff across Australia. A spokesperson from Defence emphasized the organisation’s strategic objective of swiftly resolving technical issues, which enhances its capacity to handle ICT projects internally and adapt to strategic alterations effectively.

Shift from Fujitsu to Unisys

The existing NDS contract with Fujitsu, initially valued at $99 million and extended to 2025, has seen multiple revisions, with the latest valuation reaching $306 million. Fujitsu’s contract will temporarily overlap with Unisys’ for the next three to four months during the transition phase.

Contract Timeline and Future Possibilities

The new contract with Unisys will be effective until March 2028, with the option for an additional four-year extension. Unisys is returning to this role after previously providing IT support to Defence before transferring the contract to Fujitsu amid a reorganisation of Defence’s support frameworks.

Overview

Unisys has successfully obtained an $84 million contract to deliver IT support services to Defence, succeeding Fujitsu. This initiative is part of Defence’s strategy to modernise its ICT operations and develop technical capabilities in-house. Set to commence in March next year, the contract will last until 2028 with potential extensions, marking Unisys’ return to a familiar position within Defence’s IT support framework.

Q&A Discussion

Q: What prompted Defence to transition from Fujitsu to Unisys?

A: Defence seeks to modernise its ICT strategies, and Unisys is anticipated to bolster internal capabilities and effectively tackle technological challenges.

Q: What is the duration of the new contract with Unisys?

A: The contract with Unisys will be active until March 2028, with the possibility of a four-year extension.

Q: What will take place during the transition phase?

A: The existing agreements with Fujitsu and Unisys will operate simultaneously for three to four months to ensure a seamless transition.

Q: Why is the national deskside support (NDS) contract important?

A: The NDS contract offers IT support to Defence employees nationwide, playing a vital role in sustaining operational efficiency.

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