Darktrace Federal, in collaboration with Navitas Business Consulting, Inc., has secured a definitive, firm-fixed-price contract from the U.S. Department of State to implement its next-generation, AI-powered network detection and response (NDR) solution. This announcement, made on December 9, 2025, emphasizes Darktrace Federal’s ongoing growth amid increased investment and the rising demand for AI-driven cyber resilience in federal operations.
The partnership aims to deploy Darktrace’s advanced NDR capabilities across the Bureau of Diplomatic Security’s (BDS) global IT infrastructure. The BDS plays a critical role in safeguarding U.S. diplomats, embassies, and sensitive information, ensuring the protection of American interests in over 170 countries. In a landscape where federal agencies face unprecedented cyber threats, including sophisticated attacks from state-backed actors, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more pressing.
Federal networks are increasingly targeted by malicious entities that leverage stealthy techniques, such as living-off-the-land (LOTL) attacks, to compromise critical infrastructure. The rapid evolution of AI-powered attacks further exacerbates these risks, highlighting the importance of adaptive cybersecurity solutions capable of detecting and mitigating novel threats in real-time. Darktrace’s AI-powered Cyber AI Mission Defense™ (CAMD) NDR solution employs Self-Learning AI to establish a comprehensive understanding of normal user and device behavior, thereby enabling proactive defense against a range of threats including insider risks and zero-day vulnerabilities.
The CAMD solution integrates automated threat detection and response capabilities across both Information Technology and Operational Technology environments, offering full network visibility. This is crucial for the Department of State, as it allows for the proactive identification and disruption of threats before they can affect mission operations. By combining Darktrace’s innovative AI with Navitas’ federal cloud and cybersecurity frameworks, the Department aims to achieve a unified and scalable defense posture across its global operations.
This contract reflects a significant milestone for Darktrace Federal, which earlier this year achieved FedRAMP® High authorization. This designation enables federal agencies to deploy Darktrace’s cybersecurity solutions within environments that require the highest government cloud security standards. Darktrace Federal has also expanded its market presence through a distribution partnership with Vertosoft and the establishment of a new deployment center in Dallas, Texas. This facility is designed to enhance U.S. hardware manufacturing capacity and deliver compliant solutions to federal and commercial customers.
The company plans to expand its workforce by 20% over the next six months to better support its growing customer base and accelerate deployment efforts. This growth strategy is crucial for addressing the rising demand for AI-driven cyber resilience among federal agencies, positioning Darktrace Federal to enhance cybersecurity operations and counteract a complex threat landscape. The collaboration with Navitas is expected to bolster Darktrace’s capabilities in delivering coordinated solutions that emphasize AI and automation, thereby simplifying cybersecurity processes while achieving comprehensive outcomes.
Marcus Fowler, CEO of Darktrace Federal, stated, “Federal networks are operating under unprecedented pressure from state-aligned and criminal actors now leveraging automation and AI to move with greater speed and stealth. By combining Darktrace’s Self-Learning AI with Navitas’ deep federal and cloud expertise, the Department of State will gain mission-wide visibility and precise, real-time defense at global scale.” He underscored the importance of this partnership in enhancing network security as Darktrace Federal continues to expand its capabilities to support additional agencies and enhance national resilience.
Seenu Talasila, Chief Growth Officer at Navitas Business Consulting, added, “Federal agencies need cybersecurity solutions that can adapt as fast as the threat landscape evolves. By integrating Darktrace’s Self-Learning AI with Navitas’ cloud, cyber, and mission engineering capabilities, we are enabling the Department of State to strengthen resilience on a global scale while reducing operational burden.” This reflects a commitment to delivering secure, modern, and outcomes-driven solutions for the nation’s most critical missions.
For further information on Darktrace Federal, visit: www.darktrace.com/federal.
About Darktrace Federal
Darktrace Federal Inc. is dedicated to providing AI-powered solutions that protect U.S. federal government clients from cyber disruptions and ensure mission resilience. Based in Arlington, Virginia, Darktrace Federal is an affiliate of Darktrace, a global leader in AI for cybersecurity that serves nearly 10,000 organizations worldwide. To learn more, visit darktrace.com/federal.
About Navitas Business Consulting
Navitas specializes in digital transformation and cybersecurity, offering cloud engineering and AI-enabled modernization solutions across defense, homeland security, and civilian agencies. With ISO-certified processes and CMMI Level 3 appraisals, Navitas accelerates modernization through secure and cost-efficient delivery models. Visit navitastech.com for more information.
For media inquiries, contact Darktrace Media Relations at [email protected] or call +1 929-316-4384.
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