Data Backup Digest

Having worked on various projects with the United States government since 1987, Crystal Group, based out of Hiawatha, Iowa, is a manufacturer of commercial and customized computer systems, including displays, network switches and storage devices. Their latest government project, a recent contract extension from Boeing, has the team with Crystal Group overseeing the manufacture, development and installation of Video and Data Storage System (VADSS) devices meant for U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft.

Todd Prouty, business development manager with Crystal Group, spoke about their work with the U.S. Navy. He was quoted as saying: “Crystal Group is proud to continue our production support to Boeing’s P-8A Poseidon program. This order extension to retrofit 24 additional aircraft is a testament to the Navy and Boeing's commitment to apply VADSS System to the entire fleet. We are excited about this partnership to offer our customers a comprehensive line of rugged solutions for their unique operational needs.”

Past and current customers of Crystal Group have been, for the most part, completely satisifed with the services they’ve received. As stated by Daniel Smith with General Dynamics C4 Systems: “Best server in the market. We have always found Crystal Group extremely reliable.”

What is the P-8A Poseidon?

In use within the U.S. Navy since 2009, the P-8A Poseidon, formerly known as the Multimission Maritime Aircraft, or MMA, is a highly specialized surveillance and patrol aircraft. Because it capable of taking on highly sensitive and mission-critical reconnaissance missions, it’s crucial that the aircraft is equipped with the latest in data storage technology.
The P-8A Poseidon is also set to replace the U.S. Navy’s fleet of Lockheed Martin P-3 Orion aircraft, which are becoming outdated and, in some areas, even obsolete. Apart from surveillance, the P-8A is also well-equipped for combat.

Contract Details

Under the contract extension, Crystal Group will be responsible for supplying a total of 24 VADSS units to supply the U.S. Navy’s current fleet of P-8A Poseidon aircraft. These specific devices are designed to capture, process and archive video that is streamed from the vehicle’s onboard surveillance systems.
The recent contract extension comes on top of the original contract, which equipped entire production runs of the P-8A with the VADSS devices. Crystal Group expects the project to be completed in its entirety by the end of 2016.

About Crystal Group

Crystal Group is an employee-owned company and a true leader in specialized IT hardware and systems. In addition to their products, Crystal Group also provides services in system integration, system configuration and lifecycle planning within industrial, aerospace and military sectors. Having deployed their 300th military project in 2011, the team with Crystal Group certainly understands the unique requirements of the U.S. armed forces.

To learn more about Crystal Group, including company information, career or scholarship opportunities, recent news, media coverage and more, please visit their official website at www.crystalrugged.com. Alternately, interested parties can speak with a live representative from Crystal Group by calling 877-279-7863. Crystal Group also maintains an active presence on today’s most popular social media sites.