DATA BYTES Waveform Offers High Data Rate Airborne Links
Software Waveform Completed for Mobile User Objective System Lockheed Martin has completed and delivered the software waveform for the Navy’s Mobile User Objective System (MUOS). The new waveform will enable military satellite communications terminal providers to deploy equipment that takes full advantage of enhanced MUOS capabilities. A next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system, MUOS will provide significantly improved and secure communications capabilities, including simultaneous voice, video and data, for mobile and remote users. MUOS satellites are equipped with a Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) payload that provides a 16-fold increase in transmission throughput over the current Ultra High Frequency (UHF) satellite system. Lockheed Martin tailored a previously commercial waveform to be used with the new WCDMA payload. The U.S. government has made the waveform available for military satellite communications terminal providers through the Joint Tactical Networking Center Information Repository, and contractors can now integrate the waveform into their MUOS-compatible terminals to provide WCDMA capabilities for users. Each MUOS satellite also includes a legacy UHF payload that is fully compatible with the current UHF Follow-on system and legacy terminals. This dual-payload design ensures a smooth transition to the cutting-edge WCDMA technology while the UFO system is phased out.
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The Air Force Research Laboratory has awarded Rockwell Collins an $18 million contract to complete the development and qualification of the Tactical Targeting Network Technology (TTNT) waveform, paving the way for the high-speed networking waveform to be implemented across a broad range of aircraft. The contract modification extends the current contract value and scope for the completion of the TTNT waveform development effort. The TTNT waveform will be made available for the Joint Tactical Networking Center’s Information Repository. TTNT provides high data rate, long-range communication links for airborne platforms. As a complement to existing tactical data link networks, TTNT adds significant airborne network capacity while providing rapid, low latency message delivery. The minimal network planning requirements of TTNT will enable participants to enter and exit the network without extensive preplanning. It has been used in demonstrations on more than a dozen airborne platforms, including the F-16, F-22, F-5, F/A-18, B-2, B-52, Airborne Warning and Control System, Battlefield Airborne Communications Node and E-2C Hawkeye.
Notice Identifies Key Gaps in Army Networking Capabilities A recent “sources sought” notice issued by the Army through the System of Systems Integration Directorate has identified some of the key capability gaps faced in the current and evolving networked equipment solution set. The identified gaps are: brigade/battalion command post mobility and scalability; network visualization on the common operational picture; aerial layer network extension—provide assured access for terrestrial network; integrated network assurance—network access control; and operational energy—energy sources with extended duration and power, monitoring and managing system power, supply and demand, and reducing reliance on petroleum-based energy. The purpose of the notice is to identify emerging capabilities from industry to be evaluated against a set of entrance criteria for an opportunity to participate in the Network Integration Evaluation 14.1 event, scheduled to take place this fall.
Air Force Orders Support for Top Secret Communications System The Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency has awarded General Dynamics Information Technology a two-year, $6 million task order to provide technical support services to the Air Force Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System (AF JWICS) Enterprise. General Dynamics will help the Air Force streamline its communications networks and integrate with the new Intelligence Community Information Technology Enterprise and Desk Top Enterprise initiatives. Under this contract, General Dynamics will deliver a wide range of IT services to support the continued operations of AF JWICS from numerous service
centers, and will assist the government in operating, maintaining and sustaining the centers that will provide core services to support the Air Force missions worldwide. JWICS is the Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information component of the Defense Information System Network used by the defense intelligence community to transmit classified multimedia intelligence communications worldwide. This task order was awarded under the Defense Intelligence Agency Solutions for the Information Technology Enterprise contract, a multiple-award, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract awarded in May 2010.
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