VIASAT INC

Previous wording

We are an innovative, global provider of communications technologies and services, focused on making connectivity accessible, available and secure for current and future customers worldwide. Our end-to-end multi-band platform of satellites, ground infrastructure and user terminals enables us to provide a wide array of cost-effective, high-quality broadband, narrowband and other connectivity solutions to aviation, maritime, enterprise, consumer, military and government users around the globe, whether on the ground, in the air or at sea. In addition, our government business includes a portfolio of communications gateways; situational awareness and command and control products and services; satellite communication products and services across various frequency bands; and cybersecurity and information assurance products and services. We believe that our diversification strategy—anchored in a broad portfolio of customer-centric products and services and supported by our fleet of broadband and narrowband satellites—our vertical integration and our ability to effectively cross-deploy technologies between government and commercial applications and segments as well as across different geographic markets, provide us with a strong foundation to sustain and enhance our leadership in advanced communications and networking technologies. We conduct our business through three segments: satellite services, commercial networks and government systems. In May 2024, certain organizational changes were made that are expected to impact our future internal reporting and reportable segments. The new segment reporting structure is expected to better reflect our strategy following the Inmarsat Acquisition, diverse global end markets, and certain organizational and leadership changes, that allow us to better assess the operational performance of and allocate resources to our multiple product lines. Commencing with the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 we will have two reportable segments: communication services and defense and advanced technologies. See Note 17 — Subsequent Event to our consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Current wording

We are an innovative, global provider of communications technologies and services, focused on making connectivity accessible, available and secure for current and future customers worldwide. By leveraging our own satellite fleet and its advantages, existing national operator partnerships, plus coverage and capacity from leading third-party satellites and constellations, our services are designed to provide customers with the essential capacity density, market access, speed, bandwidth and responsiveness they need. Our end-to-end multi-band platform of satellites, ground infrastructure and user terminals enables us to provide a wide array of cost-effective, high-quality broadband, narrowband and other connectivity solutions to aviation, maritime, enterprise, consumer, military and government users around the globe, whether on the ground, in the air or at sea. In addition, our government business includes a portfolio of communications gateways; situational awareness and command and control products and services; satellite communication products and services across various frequency bands; and cybersecurity and information assurance products and services. We believe that our diversification strategy—anchored in a broad portfolio of customer-centric products and services and supported by our fleet of broadband and narrowband satellites—our vertical integration and our ability to effectively cross-deploy technologies between government and commercial applications and segments as well as across different geographic markets, provide us with a strong foundation to sustain and enhance our leadership in advanced communications and networking technologies. We conduct our business through two segments: communication services and defense and advanced technologies. We changed our segment reporting structure at the beginning of fiscal year 2025, and accordingly our results of operations for fiscal years 2024 and 2023 have been recast to reflect this new reporting structure in this report.

Previous wording

Our commercial networks segment develops and sells a wide array of advanced satellite and wireless products, antenna systems and network and terminal solutions that support or enable the provision of fixed and mobile broadband and narrowband services. We design, develop and produce space system solutions for multiple orbital regimes, including GEO, HEO, MEO and LEO. The primary products, systems, solutions and services offered by our commercial networks segment are comprised of:

Current wording

Our communication services segment provides a wide range of broadband and narrowband communications solutions across government and commercial mobility markets, as well as for residential and enterprise fixed broadband customers. In addition, this segment includes the development and sale of a wide array of advanced satellite and wireless products and terminals that support or enable the provision of fixed and mobile broadband and narrowband services. We design, develop and produce space system solutions for multiple orbital regimes, including GEO, MEO and LEO.

Previous wording

Government mobile broadband products and services, which provide military and government users with high-speed, real-time broadband and multimedia connectivity in key regions of the world, as well as LOS and BLOS Intelligence and ISR missions.

Current wording

Government satcom, which includes various broadband and narrowband products and services for both fixed and mobile communications that provide military and government users with secure, high-speed, real-time broadband and multimedia connectivity in key regions of the world, as well as tactical line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight communications, ISR services and LACE terminals.

Previous wording

Maritime services, which offer high-quality, resilient satellite-based broadband and narrowband communications services around the globe to commercial shipping fleets, offshore service vessel operators and commercial fishing companies.

Current wording

Maritime, which includes high-quality, resilient satellite-based broadband and narrowband communications services around the globe to commercial shipping fleets, offshore service vessel operators and commercial fishing companies, as well as NexusWave, a fully managed multi-layer connectivity service for merchant shipping companies.

Previous wording

Fixed broadband services, which offer high-speed, high-quality, reliable broadband internet services to businesses and residential users (primarily in the United States as well as in various countries in Europe and Latin America), as well as enterprise connectivity solutions.

Current wording

Fixed services and other, which includes high-speed, high-quality, reliable fixed broadband internet services to businesses and residential users (primarily in the United States as well as in various countries in Europe and Latin America), enterprise connectivity solutions, IoT and other narrowband services (such as L-band managed services that enable real-time M2M position or high-value asset tracking), energy services, and prepaid internet services that provide innovative, affordable, satellite-based connectivity in communities that have little or no access to the internet.

Previous wording

Secure networking, cybersecurity and information assurance products and services, which provide advanced, high-speed IP-based “Type 1” and HAIPE-compliant encryption solutions that enable military and government users to communicate information securely, and that protect the integrity of data stored on computers and storage devices, and include our MOJO expeditionary tactical gateway family of products.

Current wording

Information security and cyber defense, which comprises a variety of high-quality networking, cybersecurity and information assurance products and services that provide advanced, high-speed IP-based “Type 1” and HAIPE®-compliant encryption solutions that enable military and government users to communicate information securely, and that protect the integrity of data stored on computers and storage devices. Information security and cyber defense also includes our MOJO expeditionary tactical gateway family of products.

Previous wording

Space systems design and satellite networking development, including the design and development of the architecture of high-capacity Ka-band geosynchronous satellites and the associated satellite payload and antenna technologies (both for our own satellite fleet as well as for third parties), and special purpose LEO and MEO satellites and other small satellite platforms, as well as semiconductor design for ASIC and MMIC chips. Satellite networking development includes specialized design and technology services covering all aspects of satellite communication system architecture, networks and technology.

Current wording

Space and mission systems, which includes specialized design and technology services covering all aspects of satellite communication system architecture, networks and technology, including state-of-the-art government satellite communication systems, mobile and fixed broadband modems, ground and airborne terminals, antennas and gateways for terrestrial and satellite customer applications, Ka-band earth stations and other multi-band/multi-function antennas, as well as products designed for manpacks, aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, seagoing vessels, ground-mobile vehicles, space-based systems and fixed applications. Space and mission systems also includes the design and development of the architecture of high-capacity Ka-band GEO satellites and the associated satellite payload and antenna technologies (both for our own satellite fleet as well as for third parties), and special purpose LEO and MEO satellites and other small satellite platforms.

Previous wording

the uptake of our in-flight services by commercial airlines and number of aircraft retrofitted or installed with our IFC systems, and the rate of revenue growth in our IFC-related businesses in our satellite services and commercial networks segments, as well as the impact of the grounding or slowdown in manufacture of aircraft related to aircraft safety, maintenance or other issues;

Current wording

the extent of growth in uptake of our in-flight services by commercial airlines and business jets, the number of aircraft retrofitted or installed with our IFC systems, and the rate of revenue growth in our IFC-related businesses in our communication services segment, as well as the impact of the grounding or slowdown in manufacture of aircraft related to aircraft safety, maintenance, OEM delays or other issues;

Previous wording

seasonal effects related to the timing of contract awards, the timing and availability of U.S. Government funding, and the timing of product deliveries and customer acceptance in our government systems segment, as well as increased demand for IFC services from airline passengers during peak holiday and summer travel periods and subscriber activity for our fixed broadband services related to traditional retail selling periods in our satellite services segment;

Current wording

seasonal effects related to the timing of contract awards, the timing and availability of U.S. Government funding, and the timing of product deliveries and customer acceptance, as well as increased demand for IFC services from airline passengers during peak holiday and summer travel periods and subscriber activity for our fixed broadband services related to traditional retail selling periods in our communication services segment;

Previous wording

the complex and lengthy procurement process for most of our commercial networks and government systems customers and potential customers, the impact of a failure to receive an expected order or a deferral of an order to a later period, and the timing of or effect of delays in obtaining government product certifications;

Current wording

the complex and lengthy procurement process for many of our customers, particularly in our government satcom business and defense and advanced technologies segment, the impact of a failure to receive an expected order or a deferral of an order to a later period, and the timing of or effect of delays in obtaining government product certifications;

Previous wording

our reliance on a global supply chain, including contract manufacturers and single-source or limited groups of suppliers; the impact of supply chain bottlenecks, and our ability to purchase component parts that are periodically subject to shortages or supply chain disruptions resulting from surges in demand, natural disasters, wars and other conflicts or other events;

Current wording

our reliance on a global supply chain, including contract manufacturers and single-source or limited groups of suppliers; the impact of supply chain bottlenecks, and our ability to purchase or favorably price component parts that are periodically subject to shortages or supply chain disruptions resulting from surges in demand, natural disasters, tariffs, wars and other conflicts or other events;

Previous wording

the impact of public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, general economic and political conditions, and other trends that affect the industries in which we operate, and the return to normalization after associated disruptions, such as the timing of return to normalization of government acquisition processes and pre-pandemic global airline traffic levels following COVID-19-related disruptions.

Current wording

the impact of public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the return to normalization after associated disruptions, such as the timing of return to normalization of government acquisition processes and pre-pandemic global airline traffic levels following COVID-19-related disruptions.

Previous wording

We may see some negative impacts on revenues and operating cash flows from our aviation businesses in fiscal year 2025 and potentially beyond, as a result of the impacts of regulatory oversight, approvals for new model aircraft and lingering global supply chain issues on the timely deliveries of aircraft to our commercial airline customers. The extent of global economic challenges (including lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic) on our business in fiscal year 2025 and potentially beyond will depend on many factors, including the extent of effects on important global, regional and local supply chains, overall supply and demand, global air travel, consumer confidence, discretionary spending levels and levels of economic activity.

Current wording

We may see some negative impacts on revenues and operating cash flows from our aviation businesses in fiscal year 2026 and potentially beyond, as a result of the impacts of regulatory oversight, approvals for new model aircraft and lingering global supply chain issues on the timely deliveries of aircraft to our commercial airline customers.

Previous wording

On May 30, 2023, we purchased all of the issued and outstanding shares of Connect Topco Limited, a private company limited by shares and incorporated in Guernsey (Inmarsat Holdings and, together with its subsidiaries, Inmarsat), in exchange for approximately $550.7 million in cash and 46.36 million shares of our common stock (the Inmarsat Acquisition). In connection with the closing of the Inmarsat Acquisition, we entered into the 2023 Term Loan Facility and Bridge Facility, which were fully drawn at closing. On September 28, 2023, we replaced the Bridge Facility with the 2031 Notes, in the same principal amount and at the same interest rate.

Current wording

On May 30, 2023, we completed the acquisition of Connect Topco Limited, a private company limited by shares and incorporated in Guernsey (Inmarsat Holdings and, together with its subsidiaries, Inmarsat), in exchange for approximately $550.7 million in cash and 46.36 million shares of our common stock (the Inmarsat Acquisition).

Previous wording

The assets and results of operations of Inmarsat's commercial business are primarily included in our satellite services segment (with an insignificant amount included in our commercial networks segment) and Inmarsat's government business included in our government systems segment for the period following the closing of the Inmarsat Acquisition on May 30, 2023.

Current wording

The assets and results of operations of Inmarsat are included in our communication services segment for the period following the closing of the Inmarsat Acquisition on May 30, 2023.

Previous wording

We launched the first of our third-generation ViaSat-3 class satellites, ViaSat-3 F1, into orbit on April 30, 2023. On July 12, 2023, we reported a reflector deployment issue that materially impacted the performance of the ViaSat-3 F1 satellite, and on August 24, 2023, we reported the I-6 F2 satellite (which was launched prior to the closing of the Inmarsat Acquisition) suffered a power subsystem anomaly during its orbit raising phase and concluded that the satellite would not operate as intended (see Note 1 — The Company and a Summary of Its Significant Accounting Policies — Property, equipment and satellites to our consolidated financial statements for more information).

Current wording

We launched the first of our third-generation ViaSat-3 class satellites, ViaSat-3 F1, into orbit on April 30, 2023, and on July 12, 2023, we reported a reflector deployment issue that materially impacted the performance of the ViaSat-3 F1 satellite. On August 24, 2023, we reported that the I-6 F2 satellite, which was launched in February 2023, suffered a power subsystem anomaly during its orbit raising phase, and concluded that the satellite would not operate as intended. See Note 1 — The Company and a Summary of Its Significant Accounting Policies — Property, equipment and satellites to our consolidated financial statements for more information.

Previous wording

We expect to continue to invest in IR&D as we continue our focus on leadership and innovation in satellite and space technologies, including for the development of any new generation satellite designs and next-generation satellite network solutions. The level of our investment in a given fiscal year will depend on a variety of factors, including the stage of development of our satellite projects, new market opportunities and our overall operating performance.

Current wording

We expect to continue to invest in IR&D as we continue our focus on leadership and innovation in satellite and space technologies, including for the development of any new generation satellite designs and next-generation satellite network solutions. The level of our investment in a given fiscal year will depend on a variety of factors, including the stage of development of our satellite projects, new market opportunities and our overall operating performance. By leveraging our own satellite fleet and its unique advantages, existing national operator partnerships, plus coverage and capacity from leading third-party satellites and constellations, our services are designed to provide customers with the essential capacity density, market access, speed, bandwidth and responsiveness they need. Importantly, we have continued to innovate advanced multi-orbit resource management techniques to reduce costs and expand geographic coverage to better serve the unique needs of each mobility and defense customer. In forming key partnerships with multiple GSO and NGSO operators, we are well-positioned to support delivery of Viasat’s next-generation services, achieve industry-leading resource utilization, and drive capital efficiency. In parallel, we are working to ensure equitable access to finite space resources and support regulatory certainty enabling multi-orbit solutions and related infrastructure to thrive in a shared and sustainable way.

Previous wording

As we continue to build and expand our global network and satellite fleet, from time to time we enter into satellite construction agreements for the construction and purchase of additional satellites and (depending on the satellite design) the integration of our payload and technologies into the satellites. See Note 14 — Commitments to our consolidated financial statements for information as of March 31, 2024 regarding our future minimum payments under our satellite construction contracts and other satellite-related purchase commitments (including satellite performance incentive obligations relating to the ViaSat-1 and ViaSat-2 satellites) for the next five fiscal years and thereafter. The total project cost to bring a new satellite into service will depend, among other things, on the scope and timing of the earth station infrastructure roll-out and the method used to procure fiber or other access to the earth station infrastructure. Our total cash funding of a satellite project may be reduced through third-party agreements, such as potential joint service offerings and other strategic partnering arrangements.

Current wording

As we continue to build and expand our global network and satellite fleet, from time to time we enter into satellite construction agreements for the construction and purchase of additional satellites and (depending on the satellite design) the integration of our payload and technologies into the satellites. See Note 14 — Commitments to our consolidated financial statements for information as of March 31, 2025 regarding our future minimum payments under our satellite construction contracts and other satellite-related purchase commitments (including satellite performance incentive obligations) for the next five fiscal years and thereafter . The total project cost to bring a new satellite into service will depend, among other things, on the scope and timing of the earth station infrastructure roll-out and the method used to procure fiber or other access to the earth station infrastructure. Our total cash funding of a satellite project may be reduced through third-party agreements, such as potential joint service offerings and other strategic partnering arrangements.

Previous wording

In connection with the launch of any new satellite and the commencement of commercial service on the satellite, we expect to incur additional operating costs that negatively impact our financial results. For example, when ViaSat-2 was placed in commercial service in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2018, this resulted in additional operating costs in our satellite services segment during the ramp-up period prior to service launch and in the fiscal year following service launch. These increased operating costs included depreciation, amortization of capitalized software development, earth station connectivity, marketing and advertising costs, logistics, customer care and various support systems. In addition, interest expense increased during fiscal year 2019 as we no longer capitalized the interest expense relating to the debt incurred for the construction of ViaSat-2 and the related gateway and networking equipment once the satellite was in commercial service. As services using the new satellite scaled, however, our revenue base for broadband services expanded and we gained operating cost efficiencies, which together yielded incremental segment earnings contributions. We anticipate that we will incur a similar cycle of increased operating costs and constrained bandwidth supply as we prepare for and launch commercial services on future satellites, including our ViaSat-3 constellation, followed by increases in revenue base and in scale. However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in significantly increasing revenues or achieving or maintaining operating profit in our satellite services segment, and any such gains may also be offset by investments in our global business. In addition, in fiscal years 2024 and 2023 we experienced (and we may in the future experience) capacity constraints on our existing satellites in the lead-up to the commencement of commercial service on new satellites.

Current wording

In connection with the launch of any new satellite and the commencement of commercial service on the satellite, we expect to incur additional operating costs that negatively impact our financial results. For example, when ViaSat-2 was placed in commercial service in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2018, this resulted in additional operating costs during the ramp-up period prior to service launch and in the fiscal year following service launch. These increased operating costs included depreciation, amortization of capitalized software development, earth station connectivity, marketing and advertising costs, logistics, customer care and various support systems. In addition, interest expense increased during fiscal year 2019 as we no longer capitalized the interest expense relating to the debt incurred for the construction of ViaSat-2 and the related gateway and networking equipment once the satellite was in commercial service. As services using the new satellite scaled, however, our revenue base for broadband services expanded and we gained operating cost efficiencies, which together yielded incremental segment earnings contributions. We anticipate that we will incur a similar cycle of increased operating costs and constrained bandwidth supply as we prepare for and launch commercial services on future satellites, including our ViaSat-3 constellation, followed by increases in revenue base and in scale. However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in significantly increasing revenues or achieving or maintaining operating profit in our communication services segment, and any such gains may also be offset by investments in our global business. In addition, we may experience capacity constraints on our existing satellites in the lead-up to the commencement of commercial service on new satellites, such as the capacity constraints we have been experiencing since fiscal year 2023 pending our ViaSat-3 constellation entering commercial service.

Previous wording

Our satellite services segment revenues are primarily derived from our in-flight services, fixed broadband services, maritime services (including narrowband and safety of communication capabilities primarily acquired through the Inmarsat Acquisition) and energy services.

Current wording

Our communication services segment revenues are primarily derived from our aviation services (including IFC services), government satcom services, maritime services (including narrowband and safety of communication capabilities), fixed broadband services, and energy services, as well as a wide array of advanced satellite and wireless products, networks and terminal solutions that support or enable the provision of fixed and mobile broadband and narrowband services.

Previous wording

Revenues in our commercial networks and government systems segments are primarily derived from three types of contracts: fixed-price contracts (which require us to provide products and services under a contract at a specified price), cost-reimbursement contracts (under which we are reimbursed for all actual costs incurred in performing the contract to the extent such costs are within the contract ceiling and allowable under the terms of the contract, plus a fee or profit), and time-and-materials contracts (which reimburse us for the number of labor hours expended at an established hourly rate negotiated in the contract, plus the cost of materials utilized in providing such products or services).

Current wording

Our revenues are primarily derived from two types of contracts: fixed-price and cost-reimbursement contracts. Fixed-price contracts (which require us to provide products and services under a contract at a specified price) comprised approximately 96%, 95% and 93% of our total revenues for fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively, a majority of which were reported in our communication services segment. The remainder of our revenues for such periods was derived primarily from cost-reimbursement contracts (under which we are reimbursed for all actual costs incurred in performing the contract to the extent such costs are within the contract ceiling and allowable under the terms of the contract, plus a fee or profit), which contracts were mainly reported within our defense and advanced technologies segment.

Previous wording

Historically, a significant portion of our revenues in our commercial networks and government systems segments has been derived from customer contracts that include the development of products. The development efforts are conducted in direct response to the customer’s specific requirements and, accordingly, expenditures related to such efforts are included in cost of sales when incurred and the related funding (which includes a profit component) is included in revenues. See Note 1 — The Company and a Summary of Its Significant Accounting Policies to our consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Current wording

Historically, a portion of our revenues has been derived from customer contracts that include the development of products, mainly reported within the defense and advanced technologies segment. The development efforts are conducted in direct response to the customer’s specific requirements and, accordingly, expenditures related to such efforts are included in cost of sales when incurred and the related funding (which includes a profit component) is included in revenues. See Note 1 — The Company and a Summary of Its Significant Accounting Policies to our consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Previous wording

To date, our ability to grow and maintain our revenues in our commercial networks and government systems segments has depended on our ability to identify and target markets where the customer places a high priority on the technology solution, and our ability to obtain additional sizable contract awards. Due to the nature of this process, it is difficult to predict the probability and timing of obtaining awards in these markets.

Current wording

To date, our ability to grow and maintain our revenues in each of our communication services and defense and advanced technologies segments has depended on our ability to identify and target markets where the customer places a high priority on the technology solution, and our ability to obtain additional sizable contract awards. Due to the nature of this process, it is difficult to predict the probability and timing of obtaining awards in these markets.

Previous wording

We include estimated amounts in the transaction price to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved. Our estimates of variable consideration and determination of whether to include estimated amounts in the transaction price are based largely on an assessment of our anticipated performance and all information (historical, current and forecasted) that is reasonably available to us. In the event an agreement includes embedded financing components, we recognize interest expense or interest income on the embedded financing components using the effective interest method. This methodology uses an implied interest rate which reflects the incremental borrowing rate which would be expected to be obtained in a separate financing transaction. We have elected the practical expedient not to adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component if we expect, at contract inception, that the period between when we transfer a promised good or service to a customer and when the customer pays for that good or service will be one year or less.

Current wording

The evaluation of transaction price, including the amounts allocated to performance obligations, may require significant judgments. Due to the nature of the work required to be performed on many of our performance obligations, the estimation of total revenue, and, where applicable, the cost at completion, is complex, subject to many variables and requires significant judgment. Our contracts may contain award fees, incentive fees, or other provisions, including the potential for significant financing components, that can either increase or decrease the transaction price. These amounts, which are sometimes variable, can be dictated by performance metrics, program milestones or cost targets, the timing of payments, and customer discretion. We estimate variable consideration at the amount to which we expect to be entitled. We include estimated amounts in the transaction price to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved. Our estimates of variable consideration and determination of whether to include estimated amounts in the transaction price are based largely on an assessment of our anticipated performance and all information (historical, current and forecasted) that is reasonably available to us. In the event an agreement includes embedded financing components, we recognize interest expense or interest income on the embedded financing components using the effective interest method. This methodology uses an implied interest rate which reflects the incremental borrowing rate which would be expected to be obtained in a separate financing transaction. We have elected the practical expedient not to adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component if we expect, at contract inception, that the period between when we transfer a promised good or service to a customer and when the customer pays for that good or service will be one year or less.

Previous wording

Under ASC 340-40, Other Assets and Deferred Costs — Contracts with Customers, we recognize an asset from the incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a customer if we expect to recover those costs. The incremental costs of obtaining a contract are those costs that we incur to obtain a contract with a customer that we would not have incurred if the contract had not been obtained. ASC 340-40 also requires the recognition of an asset from the costs incurred to fulfill a contract when (1) the costs relate directly to a contract or to an anticipated contract that we can specifically identify, (2) the costs generate or enhance our resources that will be used in satisfying (or in continuing to satisfy) performance obligations in the future, and (3) the costs are expected to be recovered. We recognize an asset related to commission costs incurred primarily in our satellite services segment and recognize an asset related to costs incurred to fulfill contracts. Costs to acquire customer contracts are amortized over the estimated customer contract life. Costs to fulfill customer contracts are amortized in proportion to the revenue to which the costs relate. For contracts with an estimated amortization period of less than one year, we expense incremental costs immediately.

Current wording

Under ASC 340-40, Other Assets and Deferred Costs — Contracts with Customers, we recognize an asset from the incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a customer if we expect to recover those costs. The incremental costs of obtaining a contract are those costs that we incur to obtain a contract with a customer that we would not have incurred if the contract had not been obtained. ASC 340-40 also requires the recognition of an asset from the costs incurred to fulfill a contract when (1) the costs relate directly to a contract or to an anticipated contract that we can specifically identify, (2) the costs generate or enhance our resources that will be used in satisfying (or in continuing to satisfy) performance obligations in the future, and (3) the costs are expected to be recovered. We recognize an asset related to commission costs incurred primarily in our communication services segment and recognize an asset related to costs incurred to fulfill contracts. Costs to acquire customer contracts are amortized over the estimated customer contract life. Costs to fulfill customer contracts are amortized in proportion to the revenue to which the costs relate. For contracts with an estimated amortization period of less than one year, we expense incremental costs immediately.

Previous wording

Property, equipment and satellites, net includes our owned and leased satellites and the associated earth stations and networking equipment, as well as the customer premise equipment units which are leased to customers as part of our satellite services segment.

Current wording

Property, equipment and satellites, net includes our owned and leased satellites and the associated earth stations and networking equipment, as well as the customer premise equipment units which are leased to customers as part of our communication services segment.

Previous wording

In accordance with the authoritative guidance for impairment or disposal of long-lived assets (ASC 360), we assess potential impairments to our long-lived assets, including property, equipment and satellites and other assets, when there is evidence that events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. We recognize an impairment loss when the undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by an asset (or group of assets) are less than the asset’s carrying value. Any required impairment loss would be measured as the amount by which the asset’s carrying value exceeds its fair value, and would be recorded as a reduction in the carrying value of the related asset and charged to results of operations. Except for the impairment related to certain of our satellites under construction and satellite programs (discussed in Note 1 — The Company and a Summary of Its Significant Accounting Policies — Property, equipment and satellites below) in the second and third quarters of fiscal year 2024 and the impairment of certain right-of-use assets in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023, no other material impairments were recorded by us for fiscal years 2024, 2023 and 2022. See Note 7 — Leases to our consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Current wording

In accordance with the authoritative guidance for impairment or disposal of long-lived assets (ASC 360), we assess potential impairments to our long-lived assets, including property, equipment and satellites and other assets, when there is evidence that events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. We recognize an impairment loss when the undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by an asset (or group of assets) are less than the asset’s carrying value. Any required impairment loss would be measured as the amount by which the asset’s carrying value exceeds its fair value, and would be recorded as a reduction in the carrying value of the related asset and charged to results of operations. Except for the impairment related to our exit from certain locations in EMEA markets, disposal of certain related assets and termination of certain related long-term contracts in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025, the impairment related to certain of our satellites under construction and satellite programs in the second and third quarters of fiscal year 2024 (as discussed in Note 1 — The Company and a Summary of Its Significant Accounting Policies — Property, equipment and satellites below), and the impairment of certain right-of-use assets in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023, no other material impairments were recorded by us for fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023. See Note 7 — Leases to our consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Previous wording

Alternatively, if we determine in the qualitative assessment that it is more likely than not that the fair value is less than its carrying value, then we perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test to identify both the existence of an impairment and the amount of impairment loss, by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, then a goodwill impairment charge will be recognized in the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. We test goodwill for impairment during the fourth quarter every fiscal year and when an event occurs or circumstances change such that it is reasonably possible that an impairment may exist.

Current wording

We account for our goodwill under the authoritative guidance for goodwill and other intangible assets (ASC 350). Current authoritative guidance allows us to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. If, after completing the qualitative assessment, we determine that it is more likely than not that the estimated fair value is greater than the carrying value, we conclude that no impairment exists. Alternatively, if we determine in the qualitative assessment that it is more likely than not that the fair value is less than its carrying value, then we perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test to identify both the existence of an impairment and the amount of impairment loss, by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, then a goodwill impairment charge will be recognized in the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. We test goodwill for impairment during the fourth quarter every fiscal year and when an event occurs or circumstances change such that it is reasonably possible that an impairment may exist.

Previous wording

Based on our qualitative assessment performed during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024, we concluded that it was more likely than not that the estimated fair value of each of our reporting units exceeded their related carrying value as of March 31, 2024.

Current wording

Based on our qualitative and quantitative assessment performed during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025, we concluded that it was more likely than not that the estimated fair value of each of our reporting units exceeded their related carrying value as of March 31, 2025.

Previous wording

Accruals for uncertain tax positions are provided for in accordance with the authoritative guidance for accounting for uncertainty in income taxes (ASC 740). Under the authoritative guidance, we may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The authoritative guidance addresses the derecognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, and income tax disclosures.

Current wording

Accruals for uncertain tax positions are provided for in accordance with ASC 740. Under the authoritative guidance, we may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The authoritative guidance addresses the derecognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, and income tax disclosures.

Previous wording

We amortize our acquired intangible assets from prior acquisitions over their estimated useful lives, which range from two to 20 years. The $197.4 million increase in amortization of acquired intangible assets in fiscal year 2024 compared to the prior fiscal year was primarily related to the amortization of new intangibles acquired as a result of the Inmarsat Acquisition in May 2023. Expected amortization expense for acquired intangible assets for each of the following periods is as follows:

Current wording

We amortize our acquired intangible assets from prior acquisitions over their estimated useful lives, which range from two to 12 years. The $36.8 million increase in amortization of acquired intangible assets in fiscal year 2025 compared to the prior fiscal year was primarily related to a full year of amortization of acquired intangibles as a result of the Inmarsat Acquisition in May 2023, compared to only ten months in the prior year period. Expected amortization expense for acquired intangible assets for each of the following periods is as follows:

Previous wording

Our total revenues grew by $1,727.6 million as a result of a $1,402.6 million increase in service revenues and a $325.0 million increase in product revenues, which increases reflect ten months of contribution from the Inmarsat Acquisition in fiscal year 2024. The service revenue increase was due to increases of $931.0 million in our satellite services segment, $461.8 million in our government systems segment, and $9.7 million in our commercial networks segment. The increase in product revenue was driven primarily by a $169.5 million increase in our government systems segment and a $155.5 million increase in our commercial networks segment.

Current wording

Our total revenues grew by $1,727.6 million as a result of a $1,402.6 million increase in service revenues and a $325.0 million increase in product revenues, which increases reflected ten months of contribution from the Inmarsat Acquisition in fiscal year 2024. The service revenue increase was due to increases of $1,362.9 million in our communication services segment and $39.7 million in our defense and advanced technologies segment. The increase in product revenues was driven primarily by increases of $251.1 million in our defense and advanced technologies segment and $73.9 million in our communication services segment.

Previous wording

Cost of revenues increased by $1,067.3 million due to an increase of $830.4 million in cost of service revenues and $236.9 million in cost of product revenues. The cost of service revenues increase was primarily due to increased service revenues across each of our segments, causing a $961.6 million increase in cost of service revenues on a constant margin basis. The increase in cost of service revenues was partially offset by higher margins, primarily driven by our government systems and satellite services segments. The cost of product revenue increase was primarily due to increased product revenues, mainly from our government systems and commercial networks segments, causing a $230.3 million increase in cost of product revenues on a constant margin basis, prior to the effects of product revenues related to the Acacia litigation (see Note 15 — Contingencies to our consolidated financial statements for more information). The increase in cost of product revenues was further increased by lower margins, primarily driven by our government systems and commercial networks segments.

Current wording

Cost of revenues increased by $1,067.3 million due to an increase of $830.4 million in cost of service revenues and $236.9 million in cost of product revenues. The cost of service revenues increase was primarily due to increased service revenues, mainly in our communication services segment, causing a $961.6 million increase in cost of service revenues on a constant margin basis. The increase in cost of service revenues was partially offset by higher margins, primarily driven by our communication services segment. The cost of product revenue increase was primarily due to increased product revenues, mainly from our defense and advanced technologies segment, causing a $230.3 million increase in cost of product revenues on a constant margin basis, prior to the effects of product revenues related to the one-time benefit from a litigation settlement (see Note 15 — Contingencies to our consolidated financial statements for more information). The increase in cost of product revenues was further increased by lower margins, primarily driven by our communication services segment.

Previous wording

The $1,175.0 million increase in selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses was driven primarily by a net loss of approximately $905.5 million related to satellite impairment, including liabilities associated with the termination of certain subcontractor agreements, net of estimated insurance claim receivables recorded in our satellite service segment, and also reflected acquisition and integration costs associated with the Inmarsat Acquisition. See Note 1 — The Company and a Summary of Its Significant Accounting Policies — Property, equipment and satellites to our consolidated financial statements for more information. Additionally, we experienced an increase in support costs of $212.6 million, reflected across all three of our segments, which reflects the inclusion of ten months of support costs relating to the Inmarsat business for the period following the Inmarsat Acquisition. The increase in SG&A expenses was also driven by $59.5 million in higher selling costs, reflected primarily in our satellite services and government systems segments. SG&A expenses consisted primarily of personnel costs and expenses for business development, marketing and sales, bid and proposal, acquisition and transaction related expenses, facilities, finance, contract administration and general management.

Current wording

The $1,175.0 million increase in SG&A expenses was driven primarily by a net loss of approximately $905.5 million related to satellite impairment, including liabilities associated with the termination of certain subcontractor agreements, net of estimated insurance claim receivables recorded in our communication services segment, and also reflected acquisition and integration costs associated with the Inmarsat Acquisition. See Note 1 — The Company and a Summary of Its Significant Accounting Policies — Property, equipment and satellites to our consolidated financial statements for more information. Additionally, we experienced an increase in support costs of $212.6 million, primarily in our communication services segment, which reflected the inclusion of ten months of support costs relating to the Inmarsat business for the period following the Inmarsat Acquisition. The increase in SG&A expenses was also driven by $59.5 million in higher selling costs, reflected primarily in our communication services segment.

Previous wording

The $373.6 million increase in interest expense in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023 was primarily the result of the effects of increased interest expense arising from our increased level of indebtedness following the closing of the Inmarsat Acquisition on May 30, 2023. The increase in interest expense was partially offset by an increase in the amount of interest capitalized during fiscal year 2024 compared to the prior year period.

Current wording

The $373.6 million increase in interest expense in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023 was primarily the result of the effects of increased interest expense arising from our increased level of indebtedness following the closing of the Inmarsat Acquisition in May 2023. The increase in interest expense was partially offset by an increase in the amount of interest capitalized during fiscal year 2024 compared to the prior year period.

Previous wording

The increase of $931.0 million in our satellite services segment revenues for fiscal year 2024 compared to the prior fiscal year was primarily due to ten months of contribution from the Inmarsat Acquisition in fiscal year 2024 and an increase in revenues from our in-flight services business compared to the prior fiscal year. The Inmarsat Acquisition contributed approximately $932.3 million of service revenues (nearly half from maritime services), while our in-flight services business service revenue increased $147.0 million as the number of commercial aircraft receiving our in-flight services through IFC systems and passenger air traffic both continued to increase. The increase in our satellite services segment revenues was partially offset by lower fixed broadband revenues in the United States as we continued to allocate a greater proportion of our bandwidth to our IFC business due to bandwidth constraints.

Current wording

Our communication services segment revenues increased by $1,436.8 million due to a $1,362.9 million increase in service revenues and a $73.9 million increase in product revenues. The increase in segment service revenues was primarily attributable to the Inmarsat Acquisition in May 2023 (which contributed to a $1,363.4 million increase in segment service revenues) and a $160.5 million increase in aviation service revenues (reflecting a continued increase in both the number of commercial aircraft receiving our in-flight services through IFC systems and passenger air traffic), partially offset by an expected decrease in revenues from fixed services and other as we continued to allocate a greater proportion of our bandwidth to our IFC business in preference to our U.S. fixed services business due to bandwidth constraints. The increase in segment product revenues was primarily attributable to a $72.5 million contribution from the Inmarsat Acquisition.

Previous wording

The increase in our satellite services segment operating loss is primarily due to the recording of satellite impairment and related charges, net of estimated insurance claim receivables of approximately $905.5 million in fiscal year 2024, as well as higher SG&A costs of $131.4 million, mostly related to the Inmarsat Acquisition, partially offset by increased earnings contributions of $306.1 million, mainly due to ten months of revenue contribution from the Inmarsat Acquisition in fiscal year 2024 and improved margins from our in-flight services business as it continued to scale.

Current wording

The increase in our communication services segment operating loss was primarily due to the recording of satellite impairment and related charges, net of estimated insurance claim receivables of approximately $905.5 million in fiscal year 2024, as described above, as well as a $239.4 million increase in SG&A costs and a $5.4 million increase in IR&D expenses (primarily related to the inclusion of expenses related to the Inmarsat business for the period following the Inmarsat Acquisition). The increase in our segment operating loss was partially offset by higher earnings contributions of $522.7 million, mainly due to an increase in segment service revenues as a result of the Inmarsat Acquisition and improved margins in our aviation services as they continued to scale.

Previous wording

The firm backlog does not include contract options. As of March 31, 2024, a little less than half of the firm backlog is expected to be delivered during the next 12 months, with the balance delivered thereafter. We include in our backlog only those orders for which we have accepted purchase orders, and not anticipated purchase orders and requests. In our satellite services segment, our backlog includes fixed broadband service revenues under our subscriber agreements, but does not include future recurring IFC service revenues under our agreements with commercial airlines. As of March 31, 2024, our IFC systems were installed and in service on approximately 3,720 commercial aircraft, of which approximately 70 were inactive at fiscal year end (mostly due to standard aircraft maintenance). We anticipate that approximately 1,360 additional commercial aircraft will be put into service with our IFC systems under existing customer agreements with commercial airlines. Due to the nature of commercial airline contracts, there can be no assurance that all anticipated purchase orders and requests will be placed or that anticipated IFC services will be activated on all such additional commercial aircraft.

Current wording

The firm backlog does not include contract options. As of March 31, 2025, approximately half of the firm backlog is expected to be delivered during the next 12 months, with the balance delivered thereafter. We include in our backlog only those orders for which we have accepted purchase orders, and not anticipated purchase orders and requests. In our communication services segment, our backlog includes fixed broadband service revenues under our subscriber agreements, but does not include future recurring IFC service revenues under our agreements with commercial airlines. As of March 31, 2025, our IFC systems were installed and in service on approximately 4,120 commercial aircraft, of which approximately 90 were inactive at fiscal year end (mostly due to standard aircraft maintenance). We anticipate that approximately 1,600 additional commercial aircraft will be put into service with our IFC systems under existing customer agreements with commercial airlines. Due to the nature of commercial airline contracts, there can be no assurance that all anticipated purchase orders and requests will be placed or that anticipated IFC services will be activated on all such additional commercial aircraft.

Previous wording

Our total new awards which exclude future revenue under recurring consumer commitment arrangements were approximately $4.2 billion for fiscal year 2024 and $3.2 billion (of which $384.4 million was attributable to discontinued operations related to the Link-16 TDL Business) for fiscal year 2023.

Current wording

Our total new awards which exclude future revenue under recurring consumer commitment arrangements were approximately $4.7 billion for fiscal year 2025 and $4.2 billion for fiscal year 2024.

Previous wording

We have financed our operations to date primarily with cash flows from operations, bank line of credit financing, debt financing, export credit agency financing and equity financing. At March 31, 2024, we had $1.9 billion in cash and cash equivalents, $2.2 billion in working capital, no outstanding borrowings and borrowing availability of $591.5 million under the Viasat Revolving Credit Facility, and no outstanding borrowings and borrowing availability of $550.0 million under the Inmarsat Revolving Credit Facility. At March 31, 2023, we had $1.4 billion in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash, $1.3 billion in working capital, and no outstanding borrowings and borrowing availability of $657.4 million under the Viasat Revolving Credit Facility. We invest our cash in excess of current operating requirements in short-term, highly liquid bank money market funds primarily investing in U.S. government-backed securities and treasuries.

Current wording

We have financed our operations to date primarily with cash flows from operations, bank line of credit financing, debt financing, export credit agency financing and equity financing. At March 31, 2025, we had $1.6 billion in cash and cash equivalents, $1.2 billion in working capital, no outstanding borrowings and borrowing availability of $593.3 million under the Viasat Revolving Credit Facility and no outstanding borrowings and borrowing availability of $550.0 million under the Inmarsat Revolving Credit Facility. At March 31, 2024, we had $1.9 billion in cash and cash equivalents, $2.2 billion in working capital, no outstanding borrowings and borrowing availability of $591.5 million under the Viasat Revolving Credit Facility, and no outstanding borrowings and borrowing availability of $550.0 million under the Inmarsat Revolving Credit Facility. We invest our cash in excess of current operating requirements in short-term, highly liquid bank money market funds primarily investing in U.S. government-backed securities and treasuries.