intelligent gathering - shephard media

Intelligent gathering Navies further submarine CESM capabilities

Volume 5 Number 1January/February 2013

RAPID RESPONSEDeployable C2 networks

BACK INTO SERVICEUS software-defined radios

www.digital-battlespace.com

UNDER CONTROLAEW&C platforms surveyed

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CONTENTS

1

www.digital-battlespace.com Volume 5 Number 1 | January/February 2013 | DIGITAL BATTLESPACE

3 Comment Acting Editor Tony Skinner wonders whether

governments and militaries might have reached the ‘end of the beginning’ in the battle against the global cyber threat.

4 News • Government-industry team for US DCGS-N

to be created • Sagem delivers Sterna PTLS to French, US forces • US Navy trials 4G communication links • Finnish Air Force inducts TRS GM 403 radar

SPECIAL REPORT8 Silent running Submarines continue to play an important role

in covert electronic surveillance. Richard Scott explores recent developments.

COMMAND AND CONTROL12 Rapid response Establishing a robust C2 network is one of the first

priorities on deployed operations. Claire Apthorp considers how the current trend towards rapid warfare is shaping requirements, and how industry is preparing to meet them.

COMMUNICATIONS15 Back into service The software-defined radio market in the

US is currently a hive of activity, with recent organisational restructuring putting responsibility for programmes back in the individual services’ hands, Scott R Gourley reports.

19 Common denominator As communications capabilities advance, frequency

spectra are getting congested, more antennas are required and interference is becoming harder to control. Tony Skinner considers industry’s range of responses.

ISR22 Under control The demand for AEW&C capabilities has increased

over recent years, particularly due to significant advances in the technology. Beth Stevenson provides an overview of some of the current programmes.

26 Signalling change As the first RC-135W Airseeker SIGINT aircraft

nears its in-service date for the RAF, there is growing speculation over its final configuration and capabilities. Tom Withington offers a timely update.

28 Final word Chris Marzilli, president of General Dynamics C4

Systems, talks to Tony Skinner about his company’s current progress on the US Army’s WIN-T programme and its work on future core network communications capabilities.

EditorAndrew White. [email protected] +44 1753 727023

Staff ReporterBeth Stevenson. [email protected]

North America EditorScott R Gourley. [email protected]

ContributorsClaire Apthorp, Angus Batey, Peter Donaldson, Giles Ebbutt, Richard Scott, Martin Streetly, Tom Withington

Production Department ManagerDavid Hurst. [email protected]

Sub-EditorAdam Wakeling

Head of Publishing SalesMike Wild. [email protected] +44 1753 727007

Junior Sales ExecutiveRanjit Jeer. [email protected] +44 1753 727007

Editor-in-ChiefTony Skinner

Managing DirectorDarren Lake

ChairmanNick Prest

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Cover story: Australia’s Collins-class submarines are fitted with a locally developed CESM package . (Photo: Commonwealth of Australia)

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The World is coming

17-21 November 2013The dubai Airshow moves to dubai World central #dXB13

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3

COMMENT


Cyber coherenceCyber security, like most aspects of the accelerating information age that we find ourselves in, is constantly in a state of flux.

Traditional institutions have largely struggled to find an appropriate response to this ever-evolving threat and it seems that every year brings a new chapter in the cyber security story, from the cyber attacks on Estonia in 2007 and Georgia in 2008 to the more recent cyber espionage against Iran, the emergence of the hacktivist collective Anonymous and China’s cyber probes against the US.

While each new development brings with it a fresh chorus of alarmist claims from various quarters, many of the themes have remained the same.

With some exceptions, the development of coherent national policy on cyber threats has been hindered by a lack of leadership and the often self-interested machinations of military, police and intelligence agencies.

There remains the problem of attribution – identifying who is responsible for a cyber-attack, especially when the evidence trail will likely lead across several national boundaries.

Then there is the issue of deterrence – the high levels of secrecy surrounding both cyber defence and offence capabilities often do nothing to put off attackers, including those that get involved in distributed denial of service attacks for ideological or political purposes.

For the military, the reliance on information flows and networked systems during most aspects of operations clearly means that understanding and controlling its portion of cyberspace is essential.

Staff reporter Beth Stevenson reported this month on a critical report from the UK House of Commons Defence Committee, which recommended that the MoD outlines its strategies in this domain more comprehensibly in order to eliminate any

ambiguity and set out clear roles within the organisation.

In the US, there appears to be progress in many of these areas as the Pentagon continues to develop its policy of cyber deterrence.

In evidence to the Senate Armed Services Committee in advance of his confirmation hearing, Defense Secretary nominee Chuck Hagel provided some insight into ongoing development of a comprehensive strategy for military operations in cyberspace.

‘At this time, it appears that the United States has successfully deterred major cyber attacks. I expect that deterring and, if necessary, defeating such attacks will be a continued key challenge. If confirmed I intend to ensure that the [DoD] provides strong support to our national efforts in this area,’ Hagel stated in evidence.

He noted that US Cyber Command (CYBERCOM) – currently a sub-unified rather than fully unified command – had made significant progress since its creation in 2009.

CYBERCOM is expanding its integration into the DoD’s deliberate planning, and a new set of rules of engagement governing all military operations, including cyber, is currently being developed.

When it comes to the cyber threat, then, we are perhaps nearing the end of the beginning, to steal a Churchillian phrase.

While the military’s primary focus should be ensuring networks are secure and information uncompromised, its role in protecting critical national infrastructure from cyber attack also needs to be better defined.

With the threat indifferent to national boundaries, the international community needs to do more to shape the strategic approach to prevent attackers (both criminals and hostile states) from operating as freely as they do today. Tony Skinner, Acting Editor

n SATCOMn Border security

n Ground-based radarn Communications intelligence

IN THE NEXT ISSUE

Digital Battlespace’s editorial team is always happy to receive comments on its articles and to hear readers’ views on the issues raised in the magazine. Contact details can be found on p1.

RESPONSE

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4

NEWS

DIGITAL BATTLESPACE | January/February 2013 | Volume 5 Number 1 www.digital-battlespace.com

The analysis of alternatives (AoA) for Increment 2 of the USN’s Distributed Common Ground System-Navy (DCGS-N) is due to be completed imminently, and a government-led team will be set up this year to continue development.

Speaking at AFCEA’s West 2013 conference, Capt Scott Heller, programme manager at the navy’s PMW-120 Battlespace Awareness and Information Operations Program Office, said: ‘For DCGS-N Increment 2 we are just wrapping up the AoA now.’

Subject to completion of an efficiency review, the finalised AoA would be a ‘starting

gun’ for the creation of new team, Heller said. ‘What I am looking to create is a government-led team that is leveraging the talent that is in our systems centres, augmented with industry from multiple sources, so there is plenty of opportunity for industry where we lack the capacity or capability to do the requisite engineering… We are going to create an ISR system that will be used in the navy for the next 15 years.’

According to PMW-120, DCGS-N provides the navy’s primary ISR and targeting support capability by merging capabilities into a web-enabled, joint interoperable

enterprise architecture that will combine multiple data sources.

DCGS-N Increment 1 is being fielded already and involves joining multiple legacy ISR tools into one platform under a single programme of record. Increment 2 is ‘the creation of seamless workflows across multiple information domains that enable the scaling of our workforce to maximise the explosion of very rich data sets’, Heller said. ‘So the workflows of Increment 2 are intended to automate much of what is manually accomplished today.’By Tim Fish, San Diego

Government-industry team for US DCGS-N to be created as AoA study concludes

Sagem delivers Sterna PTLS to French, US forcesSagem has delivered its Sterna Precision Target Locating System (PTLS) to the French Army and the US Army following the launch of production in October 2012.

Philippe Le Sueur, VP sales and marketing in the portable optronics division of the company, told Digital Battlespace that French and US forces have each ordered ‘tens’ of the Sterna unit, and deliveries to the latter have already been completed.

He said that the French Army will use Sterna with the Jim LR long-range multifunction cooled IR binoculars and Vector rangefinder binoculars, but was unable to comment on which target observation and acquisition system the US Army would operate alongside it.

Sterna is the newest addition to the tripod mount family accompanying Sagem’s multifunction binocular payload range, which already includes the GonioLight and GonioLight with Gyroscope. It has been designed with modularity for multi-mission requirements, including close air support, forward observer/forward air controller and joint tactical air controller roles.

At less than 4kg in weight, Sterna has been developed to meet the increasingly important requirements emerging from armed forces worldwide for lightweight, man-portable systems.

‘The Sterna is not as accurate as the GonioLight with Gyroscope tripod, but it is far lighter, and that is the key point for this system,’ Le Sueur said. ‘When Jim LR is used on GonioLight with Gyroscope the system has an accuracy of 1mil but a total weight of 15kg,

while on Sterna the system has an accuracy of >4mil but a much lower weight of 6kg.

‘Right now the first requirement from our customers is SWaP, while accuracy is second. Every kilogramme of weight we save in equipment equals extra water supplies for the soldier – and to the soldier operating on the front line kilometres away from his base, water is much more important than equipment – so we have focused on that requirement in developing Sterna.’

The system operates as the ‘brains’ of the multi-function binocular payload of choice, independently providing unrestricted, non-magnetic north-finding capabilities without the need for the soldier to carry any supporting resources to directly determine true north. It is claimed to limit collateral damage and offer high first hit accuracy and has a 72-hour extended mission capability.

Le Sueur said that, based on feedback from the new users, the company expects Sterna to be a successful addition to its tripod mount offerings for customers seeking lightweight solutions.By Claire Apthorp, Montlucon

The Sterna PTLS/Jim LR combination will be used by the French Army. (Photo: Sagem)

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5

NEWS


US Navy trials 4G communication links

News bytesiGov to modernise USMC

Combat Operations Center1 February 2013

ICOP offers video battlespace awareness

1 February 2013

MTC-2 to move ahead this year1 February 2013

Boeing delivers network management update

31 January 2013

TACLANE-1G encryptor certified to Top Secret

and below31 January 2013

CANES schedule advances three years

31 January 2013

Sealevel partners with Sital31 January 2013

Australia receives final Giraffe system

30 January 2013

JIE framework implementation gathers pace

30 January 2013

Thales launches MBITR 2 dual-channel radio

29 January 2013

Rheinmetall announces sensor award

29 January 2013

VISIT www.digital-battlespace.com

FOR DAILY ONLINE NEWS.

the broadband RF challenges that plague over-water applications with traditional microwave radios. PTP 45600 has routinely provided connectivity at over 100mb/s at distances of 25 miles (40km). NAVAIR’s requirement for this application was only 80mb/s at 15 miles (24km).’

He added that microwave links can remove the ‘bottleneck’ created by the slower SATCOM systems and transfer data up to distances in excess of 12km ‘four to five times faster’.

‘There are several compelling reasons to offload the inter-vessel [broadband] connectivity to terrestrial microwave, particularly opportunity cost – to save the SATCOM capacity for applications that could not be supported any other way, such as comms to other vessels and land destinations over the horizon,’ Miller said.

Furthermore, he noted that SATCOM systems would have difficulty providing a large enough ‘pipe’ to support high-data-rate LTE cells. The PTP 45600 only introduces ‘a couple of milliseconds’ latency into each link, compared to the hundreds of milliseconds inherent in every SATCOM connection.

‘This latency reduction should enable latency-sensitive vessel-to-vessel C2 applications not previously viable over SATCOM,’ Miller claimed.

SATCOM will still be used for long-distance communications but Miller said that microwave communications can complement SATCOM at shorter ranges.By Tim Fish, San Diego

The USN started trials in January to validate 4G cellular long-term evolution (LTE) technology as a possible intra-vessel high-performance broadband communications system.

Cambium Networks is to providing high-capacity (up to 300mb/s) inter-vessel backhaul that will allow Oceus Networks’ LTE-enabled handsets and smart devices on one vessel to seamlessly communicate with those on another within the same carrier group.

Cambium’s point-to-point (PTP) 45600 microwave system, fitted on a gimbal positioning device and secured under a dome, will be tested for 18 months by US Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) on the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge and the landing platform dock USS San Antonio to prove a secure communications link between the mother ship and a landing craft out to approximately 8km.

The Oceus LTE radios provide bubble coverage around the Kearsarge and San Antonio for smaller support craft and the PTP 45600 connects the two ships and their respective LTE bubbles, significantly increasing the capacity above standard SATCOM with 4G speeds up to 15mb/s.

The PTP 45600 uses Cambium’s proprietary waveform that combines interleaved orthogonal frequency division multiplexing and multi-beam space-time coding across multiple transceivers with very sensitive receivers.

Speaking to Digital Battlespace at the AFCEA West 2013 conference, Rob Miller, director, federal markets at Cambium, said: ‘This combination is ideal to tackle

The USS Kearsarge will trial Oceus LTE radios to communicate with support craft. (Photo: Cambium)

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NEWS


Finland’s first GM 403 medium-range radar system has been declared operational at Tikkakoski. (Photo: author)

Thales develops anti-terrain-masking softwareFrench radar specialist Thales has developed a technique to predict the likely direction of combat aircraft employing terrain-masking flight profiles.

The company unveiled its Very Low Altitude Target Tracking (VLATT) software at an open day showcasing some of its latest innovations at its Palaiseau Research Centre outside Paris on 25 January. The software is intended to be used alongside traditional ground-based air surveillance radar.

The technology could be used in conjunction with a radar positioned in a mountainous area where combat aircraft may employ terrain masking. The radar would be able to detect incoming aircraft in the normal fashion.

As soon as this detection occurred, the VLATT software would begin to plot the likely vectors which the aircraft could fly through the nearby mountains and valleys to employ terrain masking tactics to the best effect. These vectors would be derived from a bespoke cartographic database of the local topography, plus the direction in which the aircraft is flying. These possible tracks are then plotted and can be displayed to the radar operator.

Although the aircraft may commence terrain-masking tactics as soon as it enters the area covered by the mountain range, it might fleetingly appear on other nearby networked radars again as it climbs to avoid mountain tops. Once the aircraft reappears, this

information is registered by the VLATT software, which is be able to determine whether it followed one of the predicted tracks and is therefore the aircraft originally detected.

Every time the aircraft reappears on radar, the VLATT software will be able to obtain more information on its position and likely direction of travel. This could then enable an interception by fighter jets to be made at a point where it is anticipated that the intruder will eventually be.

At present, the software is still undergoing development, although Thales believes that the system could be made ready for acquisition within a year.By Tom Withington, Paris

The Finnish Air Force (FAF) has taken acceptance of its first Ground Master (GM) 403 long-range air defence radar system from ThalesRaytheonSystems (TRS) in a ceremony at Tikkakoski air base on 15 January.

Although the radar was delivered in July 2012, it has just been qualified under the air force’s site acceptance test (SAT), and is therefore now ready for operational use.

TRS beat Lockheed Martin to the €200 million ($271 million) contract, which was awarded in May 2009.

The deal covers 12 GM 403 systems for Finland, plus an additional two for Estonia. To date, two have been delivered to Finland, with one more pending, and one to Estonia, which is preparing for its own SAT on the radar. Deliveries are expected to be completed at the end of 2015.

‘With the GM we design blocks that can be used in different members of the family,’ Dominique Simonneau, senior VP of business

development at TRS, told a media briefing in Jyvaskyla on 15 January. ‘It is fully digital and has been designed to detect low-altitude targets. With UAVs now being used it is mandatory that radars operate lower. It also has easy maintainability and high reliability. Mobility is also something very special about this radar.’

The Finnish military requirement was for a mobile system that can be packed into a single ISO container, although the radars will only be deployed within Finland and are not intended for use on overseas operations. Four local companies, including Patria, are involved in the project.

‘It will be replacing the current Finnish medium-range air defence capability,’ Col Kari Renko of FAF Materiel Command told journalists during a media briefing at Tikkakoski.

He said that the radar coverage within the FAF is formed of three

components – long-, medium- and short-range – of which the GM 403 is going to be the medium-range capability. It provides coverage of some 450km in range and 30km in altitude.

‘There are low areas that we can’t over with long-range radars. That’s why we need medium-range coverage,’ he continued. ‘These three layers provide full area coverage. We will decrease from the 16-18 units we have now to 12… the new systems have better performance.’

The GM 403 replaces the current Finnish-made KEVA2010 system, which has been in service since 1978. ‘We feel this is an important programme… what we’re replacing has been very important for air defence. We’re fully confident [the 403] will do justice for the next 30 years,’ Renko said.By Beth Stevenson, Tikkakoski

Finnish Air Force inducts TRS GM 403 radar

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SPECIAL REPORT

8

Silent runningmeasures (CESM) equipment to provide interception, direction finding (DF) and analysis of communications signals of interest (SOI).

Over the past two decades, the importance of submarine CESM systems and adjunct high-fidelity COMINT devices has assumed a far greater tactical significance in the ISR realm. There is now a more overt recognition of the invaluable indicators and intelligence that can be gleaned from communications eavesdropping and cryptologic exploitation to meet both tactical requirements and strategic SIGINT collection needs.

This is because the far greater emphasis on maritime security operations and joint expeditionary interventions in the littorals means that the DF, analysis and exploitation of threat SOIs emanating can provide maritime and theatre commanders with near-real-time indicators and warnings, picture compilation, tracking of threat targets and covert gathering of strategic SIGINT.

The growing focus on more unconventional threats – irregular combatants, terror groups, organised crime syndicates, drug and people traffickers and pirates – has only served to reaffirm the importance of covert communications electronic surveillance in the maritime domain.

At the same time, the accelerating pace of commercial telecommunications technology, driven by an explosion in mobile telephone networks and subscribers, together with the emergence of new and increasingly complex waveforms in the military and paramilitary sectors, presents significant challenges in

terms of the ability of CESM systems to detect, geo-locate, process and analyse the latest threat signals.

nn OFF THE SHELFThis has, in turn, driven a revolution in the design and engineering of submarine CESM systems. Whereas once military users were locked into proprietary mil-spec technology, customers today are overwhelmingly specifying systems based on proven COTS technologies, standards and open architectures. This enables incremental technology refreshment to avoid obsolescence and future-proofs the system, so it can keep pace with evolving commercial receiver/processor technology.

There is also a growing desire to harvest innovation from a diverse supplier base and so exploit the massive commercially driven investment in RF hardware (receivers, demodulators, tuners, controllers, recorders and processor cards), software and interfaces.

Submarine CESM systems are beholden to a number of specific platform integration challenges both inside and outside the pressure hull. Internal volume constraints demand that onboard equipment is as compact as possible. Furthermore, the mast-mounted antenna (raised above the sea surface when the submarine is at periscope depth) must be both highly compact and sufficiently robust to withstand the effect of external environmental conditions (wind, rain and wave slap).

Installation in a submarine environment also imposes strict requirements for shock and

Submarines remain a highly prized asset for ISR collection because their stealth capabilities enable access to

non-permissive areas close to shore that cannot be reached by other means. Operated by a proficient crew, and maintaining an enduring presence in-theatre, a submarine can host multiple sensors, maintaining ‘eyes and ears’ on activity in the air, surface and/or sub-surface battlespace. They also serve as an important intelligence ‘force multiplier’, providing tip-offs of high-interest events to other collection assets.

Since submarines are able to conduct persistent operations in areas inaccessible to other platforms or systems, they are uniquely positioned to intercept signals of critical tactical, or even strategic, importance. Furthermore, the ability to loiter covertly and ‘listen’ for extended periods defeats the efforts of an adversary or belligerent to evade or deceive collection by satellites and other sensors.

nn INTELLIGENCE GATHERINGThe intelligence gleaned from submarine operations ranges from highly technical details of military platforms, C2 infrastructure, weapons systems and sensors to unique intelligence on potential adversaries’ strategic and operational intentions.

One of the most useful – and sensitive – ISR roles that a submarine can perform is to eavesdrop on communications nets. This function requires the installation – as a permanent or ‘carry-on’ special fit – of specialised communications electronic support

Submarines continue to play an important role in covert electronic surveillance. Richard Scott explores recent developments.


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SPECIAL REPORT

vibration, as well as electromagnetic compatibility, magnetic stability and reduced operating noise. The outboard component (cabling and antenna) must also be watertight and pressure-resistant.

The USN’s submarine CESM capability is vested in the AN/BLQ-10(V) system (previously referred to as the Advanced Submarine Tactical ESM System), a fully integrated radar and communications ESM combining threat warning and intelligence gathering. Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Sensors is prime contractor for the system, and Boeing-owned Argon ST is responsible for the supply of the Communications Acquisition and Direction Finding (CADF) subsystem using its Integrated Submarine Communications Receiving System (ISCRS).

ISCRS leverages Argon ST’s Lighthouse software to provide a modular and scalable architecture (also applied to the AN/ULR-21(V)2 Classic Troll cryptologic carry-on system). The CADF/ISCRS subsystem is thought to be capable of detecting HF, VHF and UHF communications, as well as many other types of signal, including those from mobile networks and low probability of intercept (LPI) signals. In addition, BLQ-10 has been designed to share technology and infrastructure (rack space and hosting services) with ‘carry-on’ special fits.

nn NEXT GENERATIONBeyond BLQ-10, the USN is eyeing the acquisition of a Next Generation Submarine Electronic Warfare System. This is intended to be a modular system leveraging advances in

computing, digitisation, data movement and RF capture. It will increase capability through software application and cloud computing technology, enhancing operator efficiency and system automation.

In April 2012, Babcock was contracted by the UK MoD to undertake a mid-life software update for the Eddystone CESM site operated from the UK Royal Navy’s (RN’s) Trafalgar-class nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs). The update, introducing enhanced system functionality and addressing hardware obsolescence issues, is being performed in conjunction with Argon ST (as Babcock’s technology partner).

Designed, developed, installed and supported by Babcock under a prime contract originally awarded to DML in March 2000, Eddystone is designed to provide RN Trafalgar-class SSNs with an advanced HF/UHF/VHF signals intercept, recognition, DF and monitoring capability. Founded on technology developed by Argon ST, the Eddystone contract covered the delivery of six systems, comprising four Trafalgar-class fits, a factory reference model and a land-based training system.

Using Argon ST’s Lighthouse operating software, Eddystone is based on COTS technology and hosted on a modular open architecture, enabling regular technology insertion and capability upgrades. A further subcontractor, Astron, is responsible for the antenna assembly.

Eddystone was first operationally deployed on RN Trafalgar-class SSNs in 2005, with initial

software to prove the capability of the system and suitability for service. The enhanced functionality offered by software issue 1.1, accepted at the end of 2007, enabled the full operational capability of the system – trials in June 2007 in the US and a formal trial with the shore communications unit in August 2007 included the proving of previously untested capabilities.

Babcock provides post-design services and in-service support for Eddystone, and the supporting shore infrastructure, under a long-term contract with the MoD. The current mid-life update programme introduces the latest variant of Argon ST’s Lighthouse software, with an attendant hardware update to ensure a ‘seamless transition’ to this latest software baseline.

nn NO INTERVENTIONIn Australia, local SME Daronmont Technologies has supplied its Kestrel CESM system for the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins-class submarines. The system, designed to provide wideband signal search, narrowband audio interception and DF over the HF, VHF and UHF bands, includes a wideband search receiver for fast scanning, a software-defined hand-off receiver for high-fidelity signal analysis and fully independent DF for line-of-bearing estimation.

An operator can program Kestrel to detect, collect and DF signals without further intervention. Alternatively, the operator can intervene and take full control when there is an SOI, so as to fully analyse and exploit the transmission.

Above: HMS Triumph is one of the Royal Navy’s five remaining Trafalgar-class SSNs, and all are fitted to receive the Eddystone CESM outfit. (Photo: UK MoD/Crown Copyright) Inset right: The Royal Australian Navy has acquired two Daronmont Technologies Kestrel CESM systems for deployment on its Collins-class submarines. (Photo: USN)



SPECIAL REPORT

10


Other features include: integrated demodulation for audio analysis; a tactical signal detection database with associated intercepts and bearings; and high-resolution (sub-Hz) spectral estimation for unintentional modulation analysis. Furthermore, Kestrel’s modular architecture can be scaled by adding search channels for faster scanning or more hand-off channels for parallel intercepts. Similarly, DF channels can be added or

removed for different antenna arrangements.

The Kestrel CESM system was developed in 2004 to replace legacy CESM equipment previously used on the Collins-class vessels. A single system was originally acquired – its success subsequently led to the acquisition of a second. Both remain in service and are supported by Daronmont.

Kestrel Version Two was developed and built when support for a major government-furnished component of the original Kestrel CESM system was withdrawn in early 2009. The result of this 12-month project was a system that uses Daronmont-designed and -built subsystems for signal surveillance and DF.

In early 2012, the company launched a significant upgrade to Kestrel. The system is smaller, more powerful and incorporates improved automation functions and a richer and more informative user interface.

Rohde & Schwarz has developed a tailored submarine CESM/COMINT system founded on its modular Ramon software. No details of sales

have been released, although the company has shown a picture of the system installed on a DCNS-built Scorpène submarine (believed to be one of two boats supplied to Malaysia).

According to the company, Ramon- based systems are designed to operate successfully in demanding signal environments, characterised by spread-spectrum transmissions, combining short, pulsed signal emissions – in order to reliably detect LPI emissions, and locate and store them for further analysis and identification. This is achieved through the use of wideband sensors (receivers and DF) and detection algorithms that allow the user to see even the briefest of emissions.

Furthermore, the system’s software enables emissions to be re-identified on repeated interception – in this case, it automatically compares the measured parameter values with signal profiles stored in the Ramon database.

nn DECIDE AND DEMODULATEMatching the proprietary Ramon software with the Rohde & Schwarz ADD215 DF and monitoring antenna, the submarine installation searches for and detects RF signals between 50kHz and 3GHz (DF from 300kHz-3GHz) by using ’state-of-the-art’ receiver technology and a powerful wideband DF. The system demodulates and decodes both civil and military analogue and digital modulation modes and transmission methods (voice, fax and data communications). It is also capable of detecting LPI signals, such as burst, hopper and GSM emissions.

Saab Avitronics and German COMINT specialist Medav – itself being acquired by Saab – have collaboratively developed a combined radar-band tactical ESM/ELINT and COMINT system configured specifically for submarine applications.

The full system, covering the 300kHz-18GHz frequency range, has been fitted to the two Type 209PN submarines acquired by the

Portuguese Navy from ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems’ Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft business. A first Type 209PN boat fit was completed in November 2008.According to Saab Avitronics, the Type 209 ESM/COMINT fit represents the most complex submarine EW installation engineered by the company to date. The ESM and COMINT system use separate processors and operator interfaces, but use a shared compact COMINT/ELINT DF/monitoring antenna housed within a high-pressure radome.

Saab Avitronics is the prime contractor for the full suite and is also supplying a derivative of its UME 200 system to meet the radar-band ESM requirement (2-18GHz). The COMINT processing, covering the LF/MF/HF and VHF/UHF bands (300kHz-3GHz), is based on Medav’s CRS-8100 system. The DF system comprises five tuners – three covering the LF/MF/HF range using the Watson-Watt method, and all five in the VHF/UHF range using interferometry.

A further eight tuners are used in the intercept system, operating as independent hand-off receivers. All tuners can be pre-set or manually tuned for multi-channel monitoring tasks.

According to Medav, the COMINT subsystem can resolve up to four co-channel signals by using super-resolution DF, using a combination of the company’s proprietary multiple signal classification super-resolution algorithm.

The compact COMINT antenna design was undertaken by Saab Avitronics, with MEDAV assisting in setting the specification and developing a novel calibration algorithm. Weighing 300kg, it is integrated into a pressure-resistant (tested up to 75 bar) radome and installed atop a dedicated ESM mast. Key features of the COMINT antenna design include elevation angle of arrival estimation, simultaneous DF for vertical and horizontal polarisations and estimation of co-channel signals. db

Medav’s CRS-8100 system is at the core of the COMINT suite supplied for the Portuguese Navy’s two Type 209PN submarines. (Photo: Medav)

The mast cluster on the USS Missouri contains the AN/BLQ-10 system, which includes a CESM capability. (Photo: USN)


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COMMAND AND CONTROL

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Rapid responseintegrated family of systems to plan, control, coordinate, execute and assess operations.

It integrates C2 tools to provide situational awareness, joint fires and manoeuvre, intelligence, logistics, force protection, employment, readiness and protection, theatre ballistic missile and air and space operations. Fully fielded, the system also provides the interfaces with both US DoD and commercial communication pathways, allowing the JFC to receive and disseminate information.

A small-scale JTF staff of up to 60 operator positions is supported in its Core configuration, with capabilities realised through organic servers and subsystems. In support of the DJC2 concept of operations, an extended configuration is possible where capabilities are doubled.

The DJC2 system also includes a number of different configurations to suit mission

requirements. The ‘En-Route’ set up provides network services, situational awareness and basic C2 capabilities for 6-12 personnel in a C-17 or C-130 aircraft while in transit to deployed locations.

The Rapid Response Kit provides situational awareness and other limited missions to a forward command element of 2-15 personnel in a crisis areas, while the Early Entry configuration allows a command element of 20-40 early entry command operators to access standard network services and ground-based organic communications using organic DJC2 assets.

The capability for rapid deployment is a cornerstone of the DJC2 system, and this remains a central requirement for effective C2 in the wider market. Beyond this, a number of other factors are driving development into new and innovative areas to meet the demands of communicating in challenging conditions.

nn INTEROPERABILITY REQUIREMENTSHans Jørgen Bohlbro, director of product management for C2 systems at Systematic, spoke to Digital Battlespace about the direction in which emerging requirements are taking the latest iterations of its SitaWare C2 software solution – namely, interoperability.

‘SitaWare grew out of the Multilateral Interoperability Programme [MIP] effort, when many nations realised that interoperability with their partners’ systems was increasingly important, but their existing C2 systems could not easily be adapted to support the MIP standard,’ he explained.

SitaWare is a rapidly deployable, off-the- shelf solution that facilitates the integration of multiple systems and legacy applications into a single, unified operational overview. The latest version of SitaWare supports commanders with the planning and execution of operations through a set of tools for C2, operational planning and situational awareness.

In today’s military operating environment, the concept of deployable C2 is changing. This is chiefly due to the shift towards rapid

warfare – high-tempo operations in austere environments that have little or no existing communications infrastructure capable of being exploited by deployed forces.

Even more challenging, today’s notion of rapid warfare itself is strikingly different from its definition a decade ago, with modern campaigns shifting towards an ‘any place, any time’ model against an ill-defined enemy – details that make it even more challenging to address and anticipate future requirements.

When standing up joint task forces (JTFs) in response to military or humanitarian crises, the US armed forces use the Deployable Joint Command and Control (DJC2) system. It provides the force with a standardised, rapidly deployable, scalable and reconfigurable joint C2 and collaboration combat operations centre (COC) system, to execute operations from first responder or small early entry forward component operations up to full JTF COC deployments.

nn FLEXIBLE APPROACHWith a network-centric design and an open architecture to cater for future technologies, DJC2 provides a crucial capability for US forces that grew out of the requirement for rapid, flexible and deployable C2 solutions.

The DJC2 system allows commanders to set up an integrated, self-contained, self-powered, network-enabled JTF C2 HQ anywhere in the world within 6-24 hours of arrival. The system is fully self-supporting, with its own power, environmental control and SATCOM, and is augmented with autonomous rapid response and en-route capabilities.

In its ‘Core’ configuration, DJC2 provides both geographic combatant commanders and joint force commanders (JFC) with a mission-critical,

Establishing a robust C2 network is one of the first priorities on deployed operations. Claire Apthorp considers how

the current trend towards rapid warfare is shaping requirements, and how industry is preparing to meet them.

Track24 offers integrated and standalone location-based technologies to military and civil customers. (Photo: Track24)

DB_JanFeb13_p12-14_Deployable_C2.indd 12 06/02/2013 15:37:05


Bohlbro noted: ‘Essentially, it was one of the first C2 systems built for interoperability right from its inception, and has since gone on to be adopted by a number of nations as their national system for land and joint use.’

The MIP programme defines a common standard for military C2 information systems, so they are able to exchange information unambiguously – a central concern of modern operations where individual armed forces rarely act in isolation.

The current fifth-generation SitaWare system offers an all-in-one solution for land and joint environments, operating from national and joint HQ through to the lowest tactical echelons and the mobile dismounted commander.

The system has been designed to enable a new C2 structure to be rolled out quickly. The suite of C2 software comprises two product families: SitaWare HQ, supporting the commanders’ decision-making processes by providing the tools necessary for creating and managing high-level, strategic plans, orders and reports; and SitaWare Frontline, which provides a battle management system, supporting blue force tracking (BFT) and situational awareness for company, platoon and section commanders at the tactical level.

nn CONSTANT CONNECTIVITYAs well as interoperability, SitaWare was designed to overcome another of the major

challenges facing current operational theatres – enabling communications across consistently degraded tactical radio networks.

‘Obviously, any C2 system is designed to work within challenging communication and network environments, but we really focused on taking a fresh look at what it would take to essentially give a consistent situational picture and BFT across tactical radios with the connectivity issues they face – lost connections, latency and most importantly a very narrow bandwidth to work with,’ explained Bohlbro.

‘In addition to that, we needed to develop it for the connectivity that actually exists in those environments. While SATCOM is becoming more common, its availability is still quite limited, mainly because of the cost of both the technology itself and its deployment for mobile communication networks.

‘So tactical radios – UHF, VHF – are still going to be the primary means of communication in the battlespace, and C2 systems really need to work well on those existing and often over-stretched networks, and that’s the first criteria for making a C2 system work and provide a shared situational awareness.’

This is not to say that SATCOM does not have a place in the future of deployable C2 systems. With the launch of the latest Microsoft operating system (OS), Windows 8, in late 2012, Giles Peeters, defence sector director at Track24, sees a chance for smaller companies to ease the grip of

the big players in the C2 market, while opening up new opportunities for military end users.

Track24 offers a number of location-based technologies to military and non-military customers, either as standalone systems or as part of integrated security tracking and location management solutions.

Its Security Tracking & Risk Management product offers an integrated C3 and information platform that allows operations staff and crisis management personnel to manage and control events on the ground, while the Employee Location Management System is a web-based application that enables organisations to quickly locate their employees and respond effectively in an emergency.

nn TOUCHSCREEN TRACKINGThe release of Windows 8, designed with touchscreen devices in mind, has positive implications for military customers trying to expand capabilities under budgetary pressure.

‘Touchscreen technology is perfect for tracking and C2 software applications, as it allows easy manipulation on digitised maps,’ Peeters told DB. ‘Forces all over the world, regardless of size, want electronic cartography, and Windows 8 makes this a realistic proposition at an affordable price.’

While a number of militaries have begun to introduce smartphone and tablet technology into their wider C2 asset range, the majority

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COMMAND AND CONTROL

Systematic’s SitaWare C2 software was designed from the outset for joint interoperability. (Photo: Systematic)


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of adoption is in early stages – in large part due to its prohibitive cost – opening up new opportunities for companies.

‘Windows 7 may work with touchscreen devices and do the job, but it’s not a perfect solution because it wasn’t designed as a touchscreen operating system,’ continued Peeters. ‘Pair this with the fact that the cost of hardware itself is set to fall dramatically as Microsoft releases more touchscreen tablets – most likely some of which will be mil-spec – so you should see decent Windows 8 tablets available at significantly lower price points. In fact the price factor could more than halve the cost of BFT as hardware expenditure falls.

‘This means traditional manufacturers of military tablet computers will now have to reconsider their market value. Why would a procurement officer consider spending $7,000 on a tablet when they can buy ten consumer tablets for the same price? We also expect manufacturers to start offering retro-ruggedisation as the new OS is widely adopted, in order to make commercial tablets fit for military purpose. We are already witnessing something similar with the introduction of the ruggedised Panasonic Toughpad A1 on Android.’

Such a hardware solution would allow companies such as Track24 to offer existing C2 applications with minimal adjustments as an improved solution at a lower price point. When used with a satellite network, such systems could provide application-based BFT, messaging and situational awareness in an extremely mobile, flexible way.

‘All of a sudden, we’re bringing the commercial technologies right down to the military community, which is still used to the mil-spec equipment they use today,’ added Peeters. ‘And while current equipment is excellent and reliable, it is expensive, and for the most part still locked up in the hands of a few big companies. It’s companies like us that will

take this technology, develop it and help users see that using a smartphone is not out of the question, and I think that budgetary restrictions are making them react to these possibilities.’

nn FULFILLING NEEDSDoes this mean we are facing a future where every soldier on the battlefield is armed with a tablet or smartphone device for basic C2 capabilities? This might be going too far.

‘While we could do it from a technology and security point of view, that’s not the issue – it’s about the soldier and what he needs to do with it to fulfil his concept of operations,’ responded Peeters.

‘If a soldier in a remote area is relying on a telephone network which is then compromised or switched off, what happens to that soldier? It’s not about inserting the technology overnight just because we can, it’s about helping the customer understand what is possible with regard to what they need, and slowly building on that to help them realise their concept of operations.’

For now, the next step for deployed C2 is the integration of additional weapon and sensor data with advanced C2 capabilities to enhance the information and address evolving threats.

In October 2012, Lockheed Martin introduced its new DiamondShield system, which provides operators with a wide range of intuitive decision-support tools, allowing planning and execution of air defence missions with greater speed and higher confidence.

Using the company’s experience with C2 systems currently in use in the US, Finland and with the Royal Australian Air Force, Lockheed Martin created the operational capability built on an open standards services-based architecture. This provides users with intuitive 3D map-based planning tools and time-saving decision support tools.

‘In daily peacetime operations, DiamondShield and the Diamond defence

suite of products provide operations personnel with an integrated view of the battlespace that combines current intelligence and planned military/civilian missions with near-real-time operational tracks,’ Jim Quinn, VP of C4ISR Systems for Lockheed Martin Information Systems & Global Solutions – Defense, told DB.

‘Overlaid on top of this integrated picture are a set of automated tools that provide improved identification algorithms and constantly check for anomalous track behaviour. The system can rapidly transition to a wartime mode and apply appropriate rules of engagement, while simultaneously providing recommended engagement options. In addition, the system and database have been designed to accommodate a wide range of C2 domains (air, land, sea) and echelons – strategic, operational and tactical.’

nn EW PROTECTIONIn addition to roll-on, roll-off air transport capability, rapid setup, environment tolerance and communications redundancy, Quinn named electronic attack protection as a leading requirement for deployed C2 systems in the current market.

‘There seems to be an increased emphasis on securing networks from non-kinetic electronic attack, being able to continue the fight on degraded networks and incorporating non-kinetic effects into the air component commander’s integrated battle plan,’ he said. ‘In addition, we are seeing more automated tools to help operators deal with mass raid scenarios that involve threats ranging from mortars and rockets through cruise missiles, aircraft and tactical ballistic missiles.’

Finally, the biggest challenge remains ensuring voice, data, chat and data-link interoperability with coalition partners, to ensure all operators involved in a mission have access to the same information across the grid.

‘If policy, security and technical issues are not agreed on and tested before deployment, it can be difficult to rapidly deploy and establish effective coalition operations,’ concluded Quinn. ‘Systems must be built on standards-based architectures that enable the exchange of data through services.’ db

DiamondShield by Lockheed Martin facilitates the high-speed planning and execution of air defence missions. (Image: Lockheed Martin)


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COMMUNICATIONS


Back into servicedismounted leaders the ability to connect to the secret network,’ it stated. ‘Use of a SAB HHR with SRW will provide improved situational awareness, aid in fratricide prevention and provide multiple options for communications back to the leader’s unit. The delivered product must support CS 13 [Capability Set 13] fielding, beginning in the first quarter of FY2013, or as soon as possible thereafter.’

The announcement also said the current validation will provide for a maximum quantity of 2,120 systems (inclusive of options) in order to support CS 13. It also highlighted the reality that the programmatic transition was taking place against the critical backdrop of US Army efforts to field its CS 13 network to the first eight brigade combat teams (BCTs).

Although initial CS 13 hardware fielding efforts began in early October 2012, not all radio decisions had been finalised at the time of writing. For example, as of early January 2013,

representatives for the System of Systems Integration Directorate within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology noted that the first two brigades to receive CS 13 – the 3rd and 4th BCTs of the army’s 10th Mountain Division – will receive the Harris AN/PRC-117G wideband tactical radio.

I t would be somewhat of an understatement to describe the current US software-defined radio (SDR) arena

as merely ‘dynamic’.Few defence environments can compare with

the myriad organisational and materiel activities that have characterised SDRs over the past six months. Although many of those changes are still under way, with decisions yet to be made, some of the challenges expected over the next year have already become evident.

One of the most significant SDR organisational changes over recent months stemmed from an acquisition decision memorandum dated 11 July 2012, in which Frank Kendall, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition Technology and Logistics, approved the organisational restructure and realignment of mission responsibilities for the Joint Program Executive Office for the Joint Tactical Radio System (JPEO JTRS).

Under this restructuring, the radio programmes formerly under the JPEO JTRS were transferred back to the individual services, while the office was officially closed as of 30 September 2012.

nn SOURCES SOUGHTAn example of how rapidly the services assumed their new responsibilities can be seen in a 27 September sources-sought announcement that called for ‘sources of supply for affordable SAB [secret and below] handheld radios [HHR] with Soldier Radio Waveform [SRW] capability, protecting voice and data transmissions to the secret level.

‘The SAB HHRs with SRW capability shall provide a limited number of cleared

The software-defined radio market in the US is currently a hive of activity, with recent organisational restructuring putting responsibility for programmes back in the individual services’ hands, Scott R Gourley reports.

After disbandment of the JTRS office, individual US services are responsible for their own SDR programmes. (Photo: USMC)

DB_JanFeb13_p15-18_SDR.indd 15 06/02/2013 15:38:31

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US Army project managers are focused on getting new radio products to the frontline units that need them. (Photo: US Army)

‘Current plans call for follow-on BCTs to be equipped with the [General Dynamics AN/PRC-155] HMS [Handheld Manpack Small] radios,’ the representatives said. ‘PEO C3T [Program Executive Office for Command, Control and Communications – Tactical] is also procuring SRW appliqué to augment the capability sets.

nn FLUCTUATING FIGURES‘From the tactical radio side, we are prepared to support CS 13,’ confirmed Col William Wygal, US Army project manager for tactical radios within PEO C3T. ‘Now, the army is deciding what quantities and types of radios they will be placing in the different formations as they go out. And truthfully… things are fluctuating. That’s based upon the army requirements – some of that is from an operational nature I’m not privy to.

‘So what we are really trying to focus on is that, as we have the capability to provide either a Rifleman or Manpack radio when they start getting fielded, we are meeting those requests from the army for whichever unit ends up being the one.’

He continued: ‘A lot of folks will ask me what unit is getting it. And those things are fluctuating too, based upon what’s going on in-theatre and things like that. So, really our key is flexibility, while trying to maintain a good, solid SDR product that we are delivering to whichever unit is ending up being that recipient.’

Wygal noted that he sees two main thrusts for his office over the next 12 months – supporting current army requirements by fielding radios and looking at how to do things in the future.

‘From a CS perspective, the army is doing some things where we have some changes and fluctuations,’ he explained. ‘So our focus to that end is to make sure that as we are delivering Rifleman [and] Manpack radios and supporting from both the HMS form fit and from the network system side – because they have some legacy radios that we are supporting [including SRW appliqué] in EPLRS, SINCGARS and things like that – as we are asked to help flesh these formations out in their perturbations, building up to deploy, that

we are providing those solid products that are going to be able to provide that capability in a vehicular, TOC [tactical operations centre] or dismounted configuration for the formations that are going to receive them.

‘That means getting them in and prepositioned so they can be properly fielded to units. And units can be properly trained once they receive them and prepared to accomplish their mission.’

nn OPEN COMPETITIONThe second thrust has Wygal and his teammates looking out to future requirements and the competitive aspects of meeting them. ‘The bottom line for us is that we are looking to give industry – and that’s all of industry – the opportunity to participate in a full and open competition for those products,’ he added.

‘And we believe doing that is going to allow us to achieve the procurement of the best capability with the most innovation at the best cost for the army, eventually supporting those soldiers’ requirements when they deploy. That’s our focus on that side of the house right now – to make sure we exercise that full and open

competition to the best extent possible, because we want to see what industry has. We want to see those radios and get the best product for the army and other services.’

He noted that the competition includes things like initial RfIs, followed by RfPs and then ‘the standard acquisition processes to go ahead and allow vendors to compete, participate and demonstrate the capabilities they have in their radios as we move forward to make a selection through that acquisition process’.

Wygal continued: ‘As an example, we’ve got an updated RfI for Rifleman that just closed on 7 January. We had one previously, and put out an update to allow us to better understand what industry was going to be capable of providing.’

‘We want to see those radios and get the best product for the army

and other services.’


COMMUNICATIONS

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Asked about any ties between this process and future Network Integration Evaluation (NIE) events, he responded: ‘We’re looking at all opportunities for testing venues – those include NIE. Right now, we are assessing what the best courses of action are for test events, locations and units to test with. We know and understand the value of NIE, and it would certainly be considered for those opportunities, but no decisions have been made.’

nn SYNCHRONISATION CHALLENGEIn terms of SDR challenges over the next 12 months, Wygal emphasised the criticality of the current programmatic team and its ability to facilitate the transition from JPEO JTRS to PEO C3T. ‘Along the way, the team has done a really good job of keeping the programmatics and focus going, because we’re still receiving and fielding radios and doing things like that,’ he said.

‘So, I don’t think we’ve got technical challenges per se. I think what we have is a situation where the synchronisation of all of the activities we are doing – from maintaining current activities, be they fielding radios, supporting radios, sustaining radios, conducting competition, finalising transitions of folks from the west to east coast and things like that – from a tactical radios perspective, that will be the challenge,’ he said.

Wygal also highlighted the importance of positive relationships with teammates at army level, in places like the G-3/-5/-7-8 offices, as well as at Fort Gordon and the TRADOC [US Army Training and Doctrine Command] Capabilities Manager – Tactical Radios office.

‘So, it’s really just ensuring that we maintain that synchronisation of effort and our prioritisation, so we can support all of the things that we’re doing to get the soldiers the capability they need in preparation for their mission,’ he said.

Shifting his message to a range of industry partners, he added: ‘I appreciate their activities in support of the SDR market, and encourage them to continue providing the innovation and support that they have, not only for the army and tactical radios line, but other portions of the DoD as well. And really just tell them to keep doing the things that they’ve been doing,

because my perspective over the last six months is that they have been proactive, looking towards the future and that they are partners – that’s a good thing.’

nn JOINT DEVELOPMENTWhile Wygal’s office focuses on both immediate and future tactical SDR requirements, responsibility for the development and sustainment related to SDR waveforms and network management falls to the Joint Tactical Networking Center (JTNC), which opened on 1 October 2012 in the aftermath of the JPEO JTRS stand-down.

Plans call for the San Diego-based JTNC to exploit and build upon the earlier JTRS JPEO legacy of SDR technology experience, to develop and/or modernise radio waveforms, and test and certify industry partner tactical networking devices to ensure interoperability across the services.

JTNC information releases note that the centre ‘will improve warfighter ability to communicate and share information over secure radio communications’, with the SDR waveforms and software communications architecture key elements of future capabilities for all the services.

‘The JTNC will provide secure networking waveforms, capable of operating in a variety of hardware transport solutions, for both programme of record and non-developmental item radios in support of combatant commander, service and coalition interoperable network mission requirements,’ the releases state. db

New hardware and waveforms will enhance warfighter communication and information-sharing. (Photo: US Army)

‘We are assessing what the best courses of action

are for test events, locations and units to test with.’

Marine radio operators familiarise themselves with the AN/PRC-117G. (Photo: USMC)


19


Common denominator

Systems Center, efforts are under way to reduce the amount of ‘real estate’ taken up by antennas on US naval ships.

nn HIGHER BANDWIDTH‘There is the problem that as we become a more information-based fighting force, we need to have higher and higher bandwidth to be able to communicate that data so the warfighter can have all his data at his disposal before he makes decisions,’ he said, speaking to IDGA in advance of its 2011 antenna conference. ‘Right now, with broadband antennas you can separate the frequency bands and do different applications at the same time with the same antenna.

‘There are several SATCOM antennas in development where you will have one antenna perform multiple functions – you don’t have to take up as much real estate on the ship, and that will allow us to have higher data rates to the ship. And also the ability to have multiple functions, where one antenna or one suite of antennas can do many different functions, so we don’t have to have as we do now –

essentially a Christmas tree approach, where we have antennas hanging all over the masts.’

Meanwhile, the US Army is interested in developing lightweight and conformal antennas for ground vehicles, particularly for on-the-move applications, and research in this area is a major focus for the service’s Communications-Electronics Research, Development and Engineering Center (CERDEC).

In the context of the land environment, several companies used the AUSA annual meeting in Washington, DC in October 2012 to highlight recent advances in antenna technology. Dennis Cherup, business development and sales manager at Cobham Antenna Systems, said that alongside increasing frequency congestion, compromising the ballistic integrity of a vehicle through installation of additional antennas was a major concern.

‘There are really two things that are moving antenna development where it is going to go in the future,’ he argued. ‘The first is that as the frequency spectrum is becoming more congested, and the traditional military spectrum becomes more congested, many

While the enabling technologies driving improved military antennas can be complex, the physical limitations

preventing their further development are themselves relatively fundamental.

In the US, various research efforts are focusing on the constant need to achieve antenna SWaP gains, as well as reduce the number of antennas required for a particular platform.

According to various industry experts, the ‘holy grail’ of such research is the development of a single, multi-functional antenna capable of transmitting across all required military frequencies and performing several tasks simultaneously.

The perfect solution would also be embedded into the host itself, whether it is a vehicle, ship or the clothing of an individual soldier. This removes the ‘porcupine effect’ of multiple wires and masts protruding from a platform, which both results in signal degradation and creates a distinctive visual signature.

According to Hale Simonds, head of antennas and RF technologies at the USN Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command’s

As communications capabilities advance, frequency spectra

are becoming congested, more antennas are required and

interference is getting harder to control. Tony Skinner

considers industry’s response.

Antenna masts on ground vehicles could be a thing of the past if current efforts to develop conformal alternatives succeed. (Photo: USAF)

COMMUNICATIONS

DB_JanFeb13_p19-21_Antennas.indd 19 06/02/2013 15:41:50

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Clouding the picture somewhat is the reality that the major tasks performed by antennas – communications, signal detection and EW protection – are often at odds with each other and can interfere with the effectiveness of an antenna. Systems such as the Counter Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare (CREW) operate by radiating a broadband high-power jamming signal, which can interfere with communication systems.

‘It is at odds with the spectrum domain, but it is not on the antenna aperture side,’ added Sputz. ‘You need to produce an RF signal for communications and an RF signal for jamming. But it is like screaming and trying to listen at the same time – that’s the problem.’

Speaking in 2011, Mahbub Hoque, chief scientist at CERDEC’s Space and Terrestrial Communication Directorate, revealed that his organisation was working on the issue from two perspectives.

‘First, mitigating the interference by optimising the location of the antennas and also redesigning the antenna itself, resulting in the modification of its effective radiation characteristics,’ he stated. ‘Secondly, developing sophisticated mitigating devices, such as digital filters to block the interfering signal at the input of the radio device.’

He said the present solution addresses interference mitigation between specific radios and specific EW systems: ‘Our ultimate vision is to develop a universal solution to mitigate interference between any communication antennas and radios with any EW system.’

For its part, Cobham has developed a Miniaturised Interference Cancellation system, which eliminates mutual interference when radio systems are integrated into tactical platforms. It works by injecting an accurately scaled anti-phase version of the interfering signal – similar in principle to acoustic noise cancellation systems in headphones and hearing aids, removing the interference.

Several other technologies were on display at AUSA 2012 that could help reduce the number of antennas needed on a vehicle. Comrod, for example, showcased its range of multi-band vehicle antennas, which cover the 30MHz-2GHz range. With the US Army working

External antennas produce a distinctive visual signature, making vehicles more easily identifiable. (Photo: US Army)

new applications are being pushed up the data spectrum – moving north, if you will.

‘The other thing is there is a real concern about the ballistic protection of a vehicle. So when they design a vehicle, they will incorporate a couple of spots on the structure for antennas. But as new systems are introduced, requiring more antennas, they have to cut holes to install them on the vehicle, and that really compromises its integrity. So now we are looking at a single point on a vehicle and making it multi-functional.’

While companies were generally reluctant to detail their gains in this area, the internal changes required include creating multiple apertures in the antenna and then isolating these from each other.

Cherup believes it will not be long before land vehicles follow air vehicles in getting equipped with conformal antennas. He said that Cobham has been in discussion with several sections of the US DoD on the issue.

‘Their concern really centres on reducing the visual signature of the vehicle,’ he continued. ‘Having a number of antennas has a tendency to create a specific signature unique to that vehicle, especially if it has an ISR or C2 function. So, by embedding the antenna into the structure of the vehicle itself, that can help reduce the signature.’

BAE Systems has also been investigating this area. Sharon Sputz, senior manager of business development at the company’s Electronic Systems division, said it has carrying out research in conjunction with DARPA to develop embedded antennas. ‘One of the big

requirements is getting rid of the porcupine effect,’ she explained. ‘One of the first ways of doing that is developing a single antenna with multiple frequencies. That gives you a wide frequency range for communications.’

The company recently delivered armoured panels with embedded antenna elements to CERDEC for evaluation. The centre is working on other technologies to both improve performance and reduce the size of antennas.

One thrust area is known as dynamic spectrum access technologies, where radio systems can radiate in any frequency, dictated by the availability of the spectrum. This requires antennas that can efficiently radiate over a broad frequency band.

nn META MOVEMENTFurther advances are also being achieved through a technology called metamaterials, which have properties not found in nature and are regarded as one way of creating a conformal antenna able to be mounted on the side of a vehicle, retaining the performance of mast-mounted antennas.

In addition, Sputz noted that advances brought about by the Joint Tactical Radio System had also reduced the number of disparate antennas required. For example, if a vehicle had two legacy Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio Systems (SINCGARS), it would still require two antennas. However, if the vehicle had a SINCGARS and a Wideband Networking Waveform-equipped radio, they could both operate off a single antenna.

DB_JanFeb13_p19-21_Antennas.indd 20 06/02/2013 15:42:12

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CommuniCations

www.digital-battlespace.com Volume 5 number 1 | January/February 2013 | DiGitaL BattLEsPaCE

directly with antenna manufacturers to identify a suitable solution for its Mid-Tier Networking Vehicular Radio (MNVR), the company is working through the selection process with its VHF302000TB tri-band antenna.

Able to operate in VHF, UHF and L-band, it is designed for operation on an array of platforms, including armoured vehicles, and can also be mounted on masts or permanent installations.

Antcom used the exhibition to highlight its antenna range, as well as parent company Novatel’s GPS Anti-Jam Technology (GAJT) antenna. According to a spokesperson, the compact (290mm diameter) GAJT provides anti-jam performance comparable to that of larger, multi-component controlled reception pattern antenna systems used by the military.

At the same time, Curtiss-Wright Controls Defense Solutions unveiled its Digital

Beachhead, which provides a networking backbone to new and legacy military ground vehicles. The system includes a 16-port Gigabit Ethernet network switch and vehicle management computer, and is compliant with the US Army’s new Vehicular Integration for C4ISR/EW Interoperability initiative that aims to modernise ground vehicles through interoperable digital network services.

This will allow multiple systems to share their functionalities or data, allowing information provided by GPS, for example, to be provided by a single antenna.

For small unit operations, portability is clearly a key driver, leading developers of SATCOM antennas to develop lighter, more deployable systems. While there are a plethora of solutions on the market, GATR Technologies of Huntsville, Alabama, believes it has developed

the most portable satellite antenna in the world with its range of inflatable, standalone communications terminals.

Demonstrated to Digital Battlespace at the Modern Day Marine exhibition in Quantico in September 2012, the inflatable antennas come in three sizes – 2.4m, 1.8m and 1.2m – and offer a major reduction in size and volume over traditional rigid satellite dishes.

For example, a spokesman explained that the GATR 2.4m antenna can be packed into as few as two cases, weighing less than 45kg each. Conversely, a conventional 2.4m rigid system could require six to ten large cases.

In August 2012, it was announced that GATR had been awarded a $37 million contract from US Special Operations Command for the inflatable antenna, components, technical support and training. db

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Under controlSAR or augmenting air traffic control because of the robust communications suite and radar capability.’

nn FINDING WEAKNESSESIn the 1970s, NATO led a series of studies to identify the contributions an AEW force would make to its defensive capability. Deficiencies in air defence systems were identified, and in turn the Boeing E-3A Sentry aircraft was purchased. A modified Boeing 707, the E-3A is fitted with a long-range radar and passive sensors for the detection of air and surface targets.

Subsequently, NATO established the AWACS Program Management Organisation and AEW&C Programme Management Agency (NAPMA) to operate and control the fleet under the NATO AEW&C (NAEW&C) programme.

The 17-strong E-3A component is controlled out of Geilenkirchen, Germany, and is the only operational multinational flying unit of NATO. Some 18 NATO nations are involved in the NAEW&C programme, with 16 providing personnel – Luxembourg is excluded, and the UK operates its own separate E-3D component out of RAF Waddington.

‘The NAEW&C programme is often cited as one of the most successful collaborative ventures ever undertaken by the alliance,’

states NAPMA literature. ‘The fleet of 17 E-3A aircraft represents the world’s first multinational, fully integrated air force, and is one of the few military assets that is actually owned and operated by NATO.

‘The OW [operations wing] has participated in many milestone operations. During the final decade of the Cold War, the E-3A played an important role in the defence of NATO, and it was clear that the international crew concept was essential to the alliance.’

The fleet operated over the former Yugoslavia in the 1990s, in the aftermath of the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks, and during a variety of sporting and VIP events.

Several modernisation efforts have been undertaken over the years, including a mid-life upgrade of the E-3A, covering nine key areas between 1997 and 2010. These included: improved human-machine interface; multi-sensor integration; automated digital communication switching; navigation system improvement; wide-spectrum VHF radios; UHF SATCOM; additional display consoles; and new identification friend- or-foe transponders and interrogators.

Follow-up modernisation efforts currently under way are aimed at enhancing the identification system and replacing the

F rom control of a small system at the soldier level to command over an entire theatre, battlefield C2 comes in many forms and

on numerous levels. For control over a large area, airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) assets are essential, with detection capabilities reaching out to around 400km.

By adding such a radar system to an aircraft, militaries have air dominance and detection skills that would otherwise take multiple surveillance platforms to cover. The principle has been there for years, but the shift from mechanical to electronic scanning radar technology has significantly increased demand.

‘While there are many benefits to manned ISR platforms, two attributes unique to AWACS [Airborne Warning And Control System] and AEW&C are derived because of the ability to have a large crew on board,’ David Sloan, a Boeing spokesman, told Digital Battlespace. ‘The ISR kill chain is shortened because of the responsiveness of a cohesive airborne battle management and air surveillance command node in immediate proximity to the battle.

‘Additionally, the tremendous flexibility of the system allows the asset to fill multiple mission roles – not only can the platform be a survivable C2 node, but it has applications to other operations, such as disaster relief,

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The demand for AEW&C capabilities has increased in recent years, particularly due to significant advances in technology. Beth Stevenson provides an overview of some current programmes.

analogue cockpit technology to make it digital, while studies are also being undertaken in IP communications. These are expected to be completed by 2018.

nn SECOND STAGEIn May 2012, Boeing received a $368 million engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) contract to design a modernised flight deck and avionics for the US and NATO E-3 AWACS fleets. It was awarded by the Electronic Systems Center at Hanscom AFB, Massachusetts, and is the second phase of the USAF/NATO programme – the first seeing subsystem requirement reviews, which finished in March 2012.

Boeing told DB that the system preliminary design review has been completed, as well as all supplier critical design reviews (CDRs). ‘We are on track for the system-level CDR in April 2013,’ explained Sloan.

‘Under the EMD contract, Boeing will integrate the new and existing avionics and communications systems, develop the design to install the new equipment, upgrade one aircraft for the USAF and one aircraft for NATO, flight test the new systems, develop the logistics support data and perform training for flight crews and maintenance personnel.’

Installation is scheduled to begin on the NATO aircraft at a Boeing facility in Seattle ‘during the third quarter of 2013’, while modification of the US example will begin in 2014, with both due to be completed by the end of 2015. Sloan noted: ‘Production contracts for the remaining aircraft in the fleets will be awarded later.’

This all parallels efforts to enhance the US AWACS fleet, which is undergoing an upgrade from Boeing to take it to

Block 40/45 status. All 32 of the US platforms should have improved features, such as advanced computing and multi-source target integration, by 2016-17 depending on funding, according to Boeing.

Under a low-rate initial production contract, three US AWACS aircraft modified with the Block 40/45 upgrade are in operation. Upgrades to three other AWACS will be completed by April 2014, Boeing confirmed to DB.

Saab’s Erieye radar system has been in service with the Swedish Air Force since 1997, and has subsequently been exported to several customers using a number of different aircraft platforms. (Photo: Saab)

Australia has now taken delivery of its full complement of six Wedgetail aircraft. (Photo: Boeing)


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Under the current Block 40/45 programme for the US fleet, the company is providing shipset hardware, installation support, production qualification testing, training equipment development and logistics support, according to a Boeing statement. Enhancements include new computers, displays, advanced battle management tools and an open architecture, enabling ‘rapid software upgrades’.

nn MID-TERM MODERNISATIONBoeing, meanwhile, completed a mission system upgrade for the NATO E-3 fleet in 2008 as part of a $1.32 billion mid-life modernisation programme.

‘The depth of expertise earned over 45 years of the AWACS legacy is a tremendous foundation,’ continued Sloan. ‘The purpose-built and highly intuitive mission system, along with the multirole electronically scanned array radar technology from Northrop Grumman, allows the airborne battle managers to optimise the flexibility of time, power and direction of the radar in order to accomplish the mission.’

Previous efforts by Boeing have included controlling UAVs using AEW&C platforms, with successful tests that linked the AEW&C capability and a Boeing-owned ScanEagle UAV through a ground component.

‘We continue to study ways of adapting and improving this capability for the AEW&C platform,’ added Sloan. He also said that several countries have expressed interest in the company’s 737 AEW&C.

In addition to the UK, Boeing also provides AWACS aircraft to France, Japan and Saudi Arabia, as well as AEW&C capability to Australia, the Republic of Korea (RoK) and Turkey.

The 707 and 767 AWACS aircraft were equipped with mechanically scanned radar, but this is no longer in production, while the 737 AEW&C is based on Boeing’s best-selling commercial airliner, of which more than 7,000 have been produced alongside a well-established logistics and support network.

‘The [737’s] MESA radar is the newest generation radar and provides the same true 360° radar coverage that the legacy AWACS

brings to the air battle management mission,’ explained Sloan. ‘In addition, the MESA radar and Boeing mission system have the combined ability to set target priorities and manage radar power to focus on sectors as designated by the crew.

‘Our current 707 and 767 AWACS customers remain well supported with cutting-edge radar systems and aircraft upgrades and support, making both the legacy AWACS and AEW&C products the most capable manned air surveillance/airborne battle management weapon systems currently employed.’

nn NEW CUSTOMERSAlthough the simple principle of elevating a sensor – in this case radar – onto an airborne platform for enhanced surveillance has been evident in many forms over many years, some militaries are only just acquiring the capability, and some are looking to modify what they already have.

One country outside of NATO looking to enhance its AEW&C coverage is India, which received its first Embraer 145 mission aircraft in August. The Defence Research & Development Organisation’s (DRDO’s) Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) is integrating the mission system avionics and carrying out trials,

including a ‘shakedown’ assessment and integration and development flight tests. These are expected to last a year.

Three aircraft are on contract, and the programme ‘is the starting point for much larger, more complex projects, such as the AWACS India programme’, Air Chf Mshl N A K Browne, Chief of Air Staff for the Indian Air Force (IAF), said in a statement.

The AEW&C aircraft will have a CABS active electronically scanned array radar fitted, an APU added to power all the extra subsystems, additional fuselage fuel tanks and five crew rest seats, while the cabin will be able to house five operator workstations and four racks for mission system electronics.

On 19 December, the Indian government’s Press Information Bureau posted on its website that the long-term integrated perspective plan of the MoD envisages the deployment of a fleet containing a mix of larger AWACS aircraft and smaller AEW&C platforms.

While three Beriev A50 AWACS aircraft are already operational in the IAF, there is a proposal for the procurement of two additional platforms, which is running parallel to acquisition of the three E145 AEW&C systems. ‘In addition to the above, the project proposal for indigenous development of AWACS (India)

Boeing is fitting US and NATO E-3s with new cockpit displays, among other items. (Image: Boeing)


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has been submitted by the DRDO for the government’s approval,’ the website states.

A previous attempt by India to develop AEW&C capability came in the form of the Airborne Surveillance Platform programme, which was a DRDO-modified HAL-built HS 748. Unfortunately, the testbed crashed in 1999, killing eight people and delaying India’s indigenous attempts at developing this capability.

Nevertheless, progress is being made with the most recent AEW&C effort, and speculation surrounding the acquisition suggests the aircraft will deployed along the Pakistani border by 2014 for surveillance.

nn PAKISTANI PROGRESSPakistan, meanwhile, faced a problem when the air base holding all its AEW&C capabilities was targeted by Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan militants in August. The Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF’s) Minhas base held two Saab 2000 aircraft with Saab-Ericsson Erieye AEW systems, and one Chinese Shaanxi ZDK-03 AEW&C platform.

The first version of Erieye became operational in 1997 with the Swedish Air Force. Since then, the system has been sold to many countries for use in both military and civil applications, including Brazil, Greece, Mexico, Pakistan, Thailand and the UAE.

The Shaanxi is a medium-sized and -range transport aircraft, based on the Soviet Antonov An-12. While details are scarce, the ZDK-03 is believed to be a variant designed specifically for export to the PAF, and includes the radar mounted on the Y-8F-600 platform, which reportedly has a greater range then the Erieye.

The PAF received its first ZDK-03 in 2010, and a total of four are expected to be delivered, alongside four Saab 2000 Erieyes.

Considering that the aim of the attack – alongside a ‘vengeance’ for the killing of Osama bin Laden – was to destroy the three aircraft,

only one was reportedly damaged. The financial impact had the aircraft been destroyed would have spited the PAF, but it is more likely that the main reason for the TTP’s attack was the battlefield advantage such a system provided to the air force.

In October 2012, Boeing announced that it had delivered the fourth and final 737 AEW&C Peace Eye aircraft to the RoK Air Force (RoKAF). The platform provides the onboard crew with the ability to maintain continuous surveillance, while directing offensive and defensive elements.

The aircraft also has an airborne battle management capability, with an advanced MESA radar and ten mission crew consoles that can track airborne and maritime targets simultaneously, according to Boeing. Three of the four Peace Eyes were modified by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) at its facility in Sacheon, which has also supported testing of the aircraft.

nn SUPPORTING PEACEBoeing said that it is providing on-site technical support, training and spare parts as part of an interim support programme, allowing ‘seamless support’ of the Peace Eye fleet over the programme lifespan. The fleet will be based at RoKAF Base Gimhae.

‘We delivered five weeks ahead of schedule thanks to the hard work, focus and close collaboration among the RoKAF, Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration, Boeing and our in-country suppliers,’ Rick Heerdt, Boeing VP of airborne surveillance and C2, said in a statement.

‘Throughout the programme, KAI demonstrated its outstanding technical capability and modification experience in delivering this powerful airborne surveillance and battle management capability that enhances the security of the Korean peninsula.’

Meanwhile, the Australian Defence Force announced in November that its Wedgetail AEW&C, also based on the Boeing 737, had achieved initial operating capability.

The Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF’s) Wedgetail can fly at an altitude of 33,000ft and maintain surveillance over a surface area of 400,000km2.

‘This is a very complex piece of military hardware,’ Jason Clare, Australian Minister for Defence Materiel, said in a statement. ‘The project faced a lot of challenges – we have met these by working together. Australia now has one of the most advanced air battlespace management capabilities in the world. The Wedgetail is the big brain in the battlespace – it knows more about what’s going on in a war zone than anything else.’

Challenges have included delivery delays and subsequent additional costs. This led to the programme being put on a list for concern in 2008. However, once the first aircraft was delivered in 2009 and ultimately the sixth and final platform in June 2012, it was removed from the list.

The project was approved in 2000 with a budget of $3.45 billion to procure six 737-700 commercial aircraft, which were then fitted with the MESA radar and ten mission crew consoles, according to the DoD.

Under a $600 million performance-based logistics contract awarded in 2010, Boeing is providing acquisition, programme management, integration and engineering services for the Wedgetail programme, with Boeing Defence Australia supporting with engineering, maintenance and training services and supply chain management. Northrop Grumman supports the radar.

Since 2011, Wedgetail has participated in Exercise Bersama Lima in Malaysia, Exercise Cope North in Guam, Exercise Bersama Shield, Exercise Red Flag in Alaska and most recently Exercise Rim of the Pacific. db

NATO’s AWACS fleet is owned by the alliance and flown by multinational crews from several member states. (Photo: NATO)

India’s DRDO has accepted the first of three Embraer 145 AEW&C platforms for integration. (Photo: Embraer)



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Signalling changeconfiguration. The former is essentially an upgraded RC-135C Big Team aircraft, which was equipped with the AN/ASD-1 ELINT package. Ten RC-135C aircraft were converted to RC-135V status, and all remain in service with the USAF.

The RC-135W aircraft are modified from the RC-135M Rivet Card, which had a slightly reduced ELINT capability compared to the RC-135C Big Team platforms, but compensated for this with an expanded COMINT subsystem fit. All six 135Ms were modified to 135W status and, like the 135Vs, remain in service with the USAF.

The USAF RC-135V/W fleet is further divided into Baseline 8, 9 and 10 configurations. Baseline 8 aircraft are outfitted with the Remote/Extended Aircrew Position Enabling Reachback capability, which allows intelligence gathered by the aircraft to be transmitted to off-board personnel for interpretation and analysis.

Baseline 8 aircraft can work with USAF Lockheed Martin U-2S high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft. This concept of operations probably enables the RC-135V/W aircraft to provide emission detection geo-location information with the U-2S aircraft, which can then fly to the emitter’s location to gather visual intelligence. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the U-2S can also perform SIGINT. The

Baseline 9 and 10 standards improve the aircraft’s processors and cooling, and outfit the undercarriage with carbon brakes.

Details regarding the precise capabilities of the RC-135V/W aircraft are, perhaps understandably, shrouded in secrecy. It is thought that they are capable of performing both COMINT and ELINT gathering, enabling them to detect, identify, geo-locate and record electronic emissions operating in the 3MHz-1GHz range. This section of the electromagnetic spectrum is primarily the preserve of military tactical communications systems, notably HF (3-30MHz), VHF (30-300MHz) and UHF (300MHz-1GHz) traffic.

nn BAND SPREADELINT principally monitors the 1-18GHz frequency bands, which encompass radar systems operating in the L-, S-, C-, X- and Ku-bands, although the equipment used on board the RC-135V/W may be able to monitor higher parts of the spectrum, particularly from 18-40GHz (used by K- and Ka-band radar and SATCOM systems). Military SATCOM systems also use the X-band frequency range.

There is a degree of overlap in the COMINT and SIGINT missions, as some ground-based early warning radars designed for the detection of intercontinental ballistic missiles, such as Russia’s Voronezh-M and -DM systems, use

The UK MoD has provided further details regarding the RAF’s future fleet of RC-135W Airseeker SIGINT aircraft, which are being

purchased to replace the BAE Systems Nimrod R1 SIGINT platforms operated by the RAF until their retirement in 2011. The UK took the decision to procure the aircraft in 2010, having abandoned an earlier initiative to extensively upgrade the Nimrod R1 fleet as part of the service’s Project Helix initiative.

The RC-135Ws are being procured from the US, where the air force operates 16 RC-135V/W Rivet Joint SIGINT aircraft flown by its 82nd and 95th Reconnaissance Squadrons. These two units are part of the USAF’s 55th Wing located at Offutt AFB, Nebraska, although the latter deploys from RAF Mildenhall in eastern England.

The RAF’s RC-135W aircraft will not be drawn from the USAF fleet, but instead converted from stocks of USAF Boeing KC-135R tankers. They are currently being outfitted to a similar specification as the USAF RC-135Ws by L-3 Communications at Greenville, Texas. Once in service, the RAF’s aircraft will be operated by 51 Squadron – the former Nimrod R1 operator – based at RAF Waddington, Lincolnshire.

nn CONFIGURATION CONVERSIONSThe principal difference between the RC-135V and W aircraft relates to their original

As the first RC-135W Airseeker SIGINT aircraft nears its in-service date with the RAF, there is growing speculation over its final configuration and capabilities. Tom Withington provides a timely update.

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the VHF and UHF bands respectively. This underscores the strategic, operational and tactical roles the RC-135V/W aircraft have.

nn JOINED-UP THINKINGThe Joint SIGINT Avionics Family (JSAF), which outfits the RC-135V/W aircraft, includes a modular suite of hardware and software specifically designed for the detection, identification and geo-location of current and anticipated future low-probability-of -intercept radars and communications systems.

The overall JSAF architecture includes common COMINT/SIGINT collection standards used across US airborne reconnaissance platforms regardless of airframe. Open architecture and a common sensor payload, plus reconfigurable processors, form the bedrock of the JSAF concept. The family is capable of working with both low-band and high-band emitters, and its integral High Band Subsystem was developed by TRW to detect radar emissions.

The Low Band Subsystem (LBSS), meanwhile, was developed by BAE Systems. On the

RC-135V/W, it operates with an HF antenna array, providing direction-finding for geo-location, as well as initial signal detection. The LBSS is tasked with COMINT, and by virtue of the bandwidth it monitors, no doubt has some potential regarding low-frequency radars.

It is believed that RC-135V/W aircraft are equipped with the Link 11-based Tactical Digital Information Link US and allied communications protocol, and the Tactical Information Broadcast Service UHF line-of-sight SATCOM system to hand off intelligence to other users.

The aircraft’s communications systems are compatible with the Joint Interoperable Operator Network. This initiative networks all existing and future US SIGINT platforms together to allow seamless information-sharing, and SIGINT information with other non-SIGINT intelligence networks handling imagery and measurement and signature intelligence traffic.

The RAF’s RC-135Ws are expected to include some unique specifications. For example, the aircraft will be outfitted with a hose-and-drogue refuelling system, rather than the boom method used by the USAF, to ensure the British aircraft can receive fuel from the RAF’s tanker fleet.

In terms of mission systems, the aircraft may be equipped with Qinetiq’s TigerShark COMINT package. This could replace the BAE Systems LBSS subsystem carried by the USAF RC-135V/W aircraft. The completion of the RAF’s three RC-135W aircraft will take the global RC-135V/W fleet to 19 airframes. As well as providing SIGINT support to the RAF and UK armed forces in general, the RAF’s Airseekers are expected to work closely with the USAF’s RC-135V/W fleet in the future, as well as other NATO allies.

nn MAKING PREPARATIONSPresently, both the RAF and USAF are looking ahead to additional development, testing and evaluation activities to ensure the Airseeker aircraft are ready to enter service on schedule. According to an RAF spokesperson, this will be conducted in the US by the USAF’s 645th Aeronautical Systems Squadron (AESS), located at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio.

The 645th AESS is part of the USAF’s Big Safari programme, which manages the

acquisition, upgrade and support of several ‘special weapons’ platforms, such as the RC-135V/W. The spokesperson noted: ‘The 645th AESS Cooperative Program Office has been augmented with RAF personnel, who will be involved in the testing activity for the UK aircraft. Further work-up activity and testing of RAF ground support infrastructure for the RC-135W Airseeker aircraft will be conducted in the UK.’

In terms of overall procurement costs, the spokesperson stated: ‘The total procurement is estimated at £633 million [$1.02 billion]. This includes the cost of procuring the KC-135R tankers, their conversion to the RC-135W standard and associated training.’

Furthermore, in June 2011 the UK and US governments signed a joint MoU worth around £630 million to provide spare parts for the aircraft as well as support, including maintenance, repair and overhaul of the aircraft and its subsystems when in service and on deployment, and deep maintenance and upgrades to its mission systems every four years.

This contract is expected to run for the duration of the aircraft’s life until around 2025. The quadrennial upgrades for the aircraft and its subsystems will see their deployment to L-3 Communications’ facilities in Texas for a complete overhaul of the aircraft, and a refurbishment of its equipment. This puts the cost of the full acquisition of the aircraft and MRO package at just over £1.2 billion.

The advent of the RC-135Ws in RAF service has necessitated the retraining of personnel from 51 Squadron to ensure that they can operate the new aircraft. This commenced in January 2011, and included RAF personnel performing joint deployments with their USAF counterparts on board the latter service’s RC-135V/W aircraft. A total of four RAF RC-135W crews have been trained as a result of this joint initiative.

According to an MoD spokesperson, the first RC-135W Airseeker will enter service in December 2013. This will be followed by a second in 2015, and a third by the end of 2017. Each KC-135R takes around 18 months to convert and certify as an RC-135W. Once in service, they will provide ELINT support to the RAF until around 2025. db

Boeing RC-135V/W Rivet Joint SIGINT aircraft house several mission specialists tasked with both communications intelligence and electronic intelligence collection, analysis and emitter location. (Photo: USAF)

A USAF Boeing RC-135 Rivet Joint SIGINT aircraft is guided to its parking space. The RAF is acquiring three converted from US KC-135R tanker aircraft stocks. (Photo: US DoD)

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FINAL WORD

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www.digital-battlespace.comDIGITAL BATTLESPACE | January/February 2013 | Volume 5 Number 1

The winning move

So that’s priority one for us, and it is really a game-changer for strategic reach to provide an internet capability they are accustomed to in the home or business right now.’

A second key component is a second LRIP order for AN/PRC-154 Rifleman radios, part of the Joint Tactical Radio System Handheld, Manpack and Small Form Fit (JTRS HMS) programme, bringing the number of systems procured to more than 19,000.

GDC4S is the prime contractor for the JTRS HMS programme, with Thales responsible for producing 50% of all LRIP Rifleman radios.

‘That’s the individual radio for the dismounted soldier that historically has been excluded from connectivity in the wider network. So that’s a first because we can finally include a squad-level soldier who in the past was using hand signals and yelling, and can now very covertly and electronically have his position reported and voice heard, really for the first time in military history, into the bigger network.’

In a further step to get JTRS across the threshold from development into fielding, the army awarded the company a $306 million additional production order for 3,726 HMS AN/PRC-155 Manpack radios. Deliveries to the army started in November.

‘It is two channels in a single condensed package,’ he continued. ‘It allows you to do auto rerouting between lower echelons and higher echelons in different waveforms. These are software-defined radios, and they use government-owned, non-proprietary waveforms.’

Looking forward, Marzilli noted that the company was looking to secure a contract for the Mid-Tier Networking Vehicular Radio, which has replaced the cancelled Ground

Mobile Radio. As the Rifleman and Manpack radios enter full-rate production, the army is looking to open the programmes to wider participation through a competition – a step welcomed by Marzilli.

Beyond US Army requirements, GDC4S is looking to evolve its core network communications offers with an emphasis on broadband for the public safety market. In June, the company finalised the acquisition of IPWireless, a provider of 3G and 4G LTE wireless broadband equipment for first responder and military customers.

Marzilli predicts the ‘bring your own device’ technologies, which will allow secure access into an enterprise, yet still access common applications, such as social media, will become a key sector.

nn GOING COMMERCIALGDC4S’s Sectéra Edge technology allows the use of a commercial smartphone to access classified networks and open applications on a single device with a soft toggle. ‘You will see that come into vogue very shortly – we are shipping products next year that have those dual capabilities on a single smartphone. We are in trials and pilot programmes, and are working with the USMC, the NSA and DISA.

‘That will be a very competitive environment, but we will have a very commercial, very slick offering that, to the user, will feel like a very out-of-the-box product, but to a CIO, it is going to look like a very locked-down, trusted product with a software load that they feel comfortable with.’ db

As the US Army furthers its ambitions to develop a next-generation integrated mission command network, one

company that has become central to such plans is General Dynamics C4 Systems (GDC4S).

The second half of 2012 saw several contractual developments as part of the army’s Capability Set 13 deployment (see p15), allowing Marzilli to highlight GDC4S’s current role. ‘We are at the cornerstone of army network modernisation,’ he told Digital Battlespace. ‘We are the prime contractor for a couple of programmes that define network modernisation.’

nn OUT TO WINIn October 2012, it was announced that the army had awarded GDC4S a $346 million delivery order to procure the Warfighter Information Network – Tactical (WIN-T) Increment 2 (Inc 2) for additional brigade combat teams and division HQ units. WIN-T is a three-tiered communications architecture (space, terrestrial and airborne) that serves as the army’s high-speed and high-capacity tactical communications network.

Inc 2 will provide division and below manoeuvre commanders with mobile communications capabilities to support initial C2 ‘on the move’. ‘We have qualified through an IOT&E [initial operational test & evaluation] for WIN-T Inc 2, which really brings an on-the-move capability of broadband embedded in the tactical commander at all echelons to get him megabit speed for high-power applications at pace – that’s a first of its kind,’ explained Marzilli.

‘That is in LRIP [low-rate, initial production] now, and will be graduating to full-rate production within the next couple of quarters.

Chris Marzilli, president of General Dynamics C4 Systems, talks to Tony Skinner about his company’s current progress on the US Army’s WIN-T programme and how it is the ‘cornerstone’ of army network modernisation.

DB_JanFeb13_p28_Final_word.indd 28 06/02/2013 15:46:44

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