Viasat's Q1 2026: Unpacking Key Contradictions in Government Satcom, CapEx Strategies, and Market Demand

Government satcom growth expectations, Launch configuration changes and CapEx savings, Spectrum asset monetization options, Encryption services market demand, Viasat-3 satellite deployment timeline are the key contradictions discussed in Viasat's latest 2026Q1 earnings call.



Revenue and Adjusted EBITDA Growth:
- Viasat, Inc. reported a 4% year-over-year increase in revenue for Q1 fiscal 2026.
- Adjusted EBITDA increased by 1% year-over-year, driven by double-digit adjusted EBITDA growth in information security and cyber defense, partially offset by lower IP-related revenue and declines in maritime.
- The growth was driven by strong market demand in the Defense and Advanced Technologies segment and a healthy market demand in key business lines, despite lower IP, intellectual property licensing revenue.

ViaSat-3 Satellite Progress:
- Viasat is progressing on the ViaSat-3 satellite series, aiming to bring Flights 2 and 3 into service to enhance bandwidth capacity.
- The completion of implementation and testing of corrective actions for the deployable reflectors and preparations for mechanical environmental testing were key milestones.
- This progress is crucial for enhancing capacity in franchise businesses and supporting growth across various service sectors.

Defense and Advanced Technologies Segment Performance:
- The Defense and Advanced Technologies segment reported award revenues of $428 million, increasing 22% year-over-year.
- Revenue in this segment grew by 15%, driven by growth in infosec and cyber defense, space and mission systems, offset by lower IP-related revenue.
- The strong performance was due to high demand for encryption products amid national security concerns and robust market positions in key areas.

Cash Flow and Capital Efficiency:
- Viasat generated positive free cash flow of $60 million for the quarter, with a trailing 12-month tally of $88 million.
- The company aims to sustain and grow free cash flow, focusing on reducing capital intensity and improving capital productivity.
- This emphasis on cash flow generation is crucial for reducing leverage and improving debt and equity prices.