Harris' Falcon Networking System connects warfighters to the tactical cloud

News Report

As announced in a press release, Harris recently unveiled its new Falcon networking system, which is presented as the first end-to-end system for connecting warfighters in the field to the tactical cloud. The system broadens and simplifies the delivery of secure video, data and other crucial command and control applications over both wideband tactical and emerging cellular networks.

The Technology

Warfighters today face challenges accessing data when their missions take them beyond the range of command center infrastructure. The new system combines information technology resources, such as a computer server and Falcon wideband tactical radio, into an integrated, lightweight package that can be deployed to support missions at the tactical edge. By utilizing the Falcon networking system, tactical users can now access applications and other critical data files that were previously beyond their reach due to constraints in bandwidth and power. Designed for on-the-move operations, the Falcon networking system delivers assured wireless network connectivity, content and services to mobile and dismounted soldiers. The system enables reliable, persistent distribution of vital information between higher headquarters, through command vehicles, to the squad.

Building on the proven capabilities of the AN/PRC-117G radio, Harris' solution extends the network to the edge with the most complete mobile system available. The standard configuration of the system includes:

• Tactical Radios, i.e. the Harris' Falcon III® AN/PRC-117G, the low-profile 50-watt vehicular amplifier adapter (VAA), which also provide Sierra™ II software programmable encryption and wideband data performance with the Harris Adaptive Networking Wideband Waveform (ANW2) and the Soldier Radio Waveform (SRW).
• A Network Communications Server, i.e. a small, rugged and scalable network integration center which includes dual security enclaves with embedded routers and servers and standards-based interfaces to support radio cross-banding, distributed information routing, and hosting of mission-critical applications.
• Tactical Cellulars. To help transform the user experience in military communications, Harris designed the Falcon networking system with a 4G tactical cellular module that will enable warfighters to use ruggedized smartphones and other lightweight devices on the battlefield. Tactical cellular service in the system adds capacity, speed and 4G LTE standards to the battlefield with all key components — antennas, filters, baseband and controls — contained in a rugged enclosure. The system contains an LTE Core that provides basic voice, data, video and network management through a standards-based solution compatible with commercial user equipment. Future enhancements will include roaming and composed security solutions.

Comments

"Harris is committed to developing technology that significantly enhances the utility of the tactical network," said George Helm, president, Department of Defense business, Harris RF Communications. "This system builds on our expertise in tactical communications and high-grade information security to deliver assured network connectivity, content and services, where and when they are needed. In short, our system delivers information to the right place at the right time in harsh and remote environments."

References: Harris (1,2)

Harris' Momentum radios support U.S. Public Safety and Municipal Agengies to meet the FCC's narrowbanding deadline

News Report

As reported in a recent press release, Harris recently announced the availability of Momentum, a complete communications solution for the growing North American Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) user community. Momentum is a scalable digital solution based over an open technology platform which allows public safety, public service, municipal, utility and transportation agencies to meet the FCC's narrowbanding deadline (on January 1, 2013, all public safety and business industrial land mobile radio systems operating in the 150-512 MHz radio bands must cease operating using 25 kHz efficiency technology, and begin operating using at least 12.5 kHz efficiency technology. Migration to 12.5 kHz efficiency technologywill allow the creation of additional channel capacity within the same radio spectrum, and support more users).

The Technology

Momentum is as a standards-based digital communications solution designed to deliver maximum performance within the constraints of tight operating budgets. This solution fully complies with DMR standards and leverages proven digital technology to provide cost-effective, highly-reliable communications. Momentum family of radios includes powerful standards-based TDMA products that are compatible with DMR Tier II (conventional) and Tier III (trunked) compliant systems. It also provides IP connectivity to wide area networks, integrated GPS for fleet management applications, and an intuitive, user-centric interface in a lightweight, durable package.

Momentum line of products includes:

• HDP150, a software defined DMR Multimode man-portable radio that integrates GPS.
• HDP100, a light-weight DMR Multimode man-portable radio which provides a simplified user interface offering easy to use analog or digital Push-To-Talk communications.
• HDM150, a software defined Multimode DMR mobile Radio which meets Military Standards for rain, sand and dust, shock and vibration and, When configured with an optional desktop microphone and power supply, operates as a desktop control station.
• HDR100, a multimode DMR conventional repeater which operates in compliance with the FCC 2013 Narrowband mandate

Comments

"Momentum significantly extends the Harris portfolio of reliable communications solutions to an expanding community of users," said Steve Marschilok, president Harris Public Safety and Professional Communications. "Momentum delivers what public agencies and private organizations require — an affordable, user-friendly and resource-efficient DMR-based voice and data solution, backed by Harris, a recognized global leader in mission critical communications."

References: Harris (1,2)

Contract Award: Harris to support Australian Armed Forces' tactical radio modernization

News Report

As announced in a recent press release, Harris has received a US$235 million (AUD$223 million) order to deliver Falcon® tactical radio systems to the Australian Department of Defence in the next phase of its tactical radio modernization program. The radios will provide Australia's armed forces with reliable and secure Type-1 tactical voice and data communications.

Harris will supply the Australian Defence Force (ADF) principally with Harris Falcon III® AN/PRC-152(C) multiband, multi-mode handheld tactical radios for portable line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight voice and data communications. The AN/PRC-152(C) is the most widely deployed JTRS Software Communications Architecture-certified handheld radio, with more than 160,000 units shipped to U.S., NATO and other allied forces worldwide.

The ADF is also acquiring the Falcon II® AN/PRC-150(C) manpack, the world's only type-1 certified HF radio. Both radios are being delivered to the ADF under the Joint Project 2072 program. Harris will support delivery, installation and training for the radios through its newly opened Asia-Pacific headquarters in Brisbane.

The Technology

The AN/PRC-152(C) is a Type-1 certified single-channel multiband handheld radio that provides voice and data communications over the 30 MHz to 512 MHz frequency range. The radio supports SINCGARS, Havequick II, VHF/UHF AM and FM, APCO P25 and both DAMA and the new Integrated Waveform for satellite communications.

AN/PRC-152 Type-1 Single-Channel Multiband Multimission Handheld Radio

The AN/PRC-152 hardware configuration options include an embedded GPS receiver that displays local positions and provides automatic position location information for situational awareness on the battlefield. Optionally available is a high band version that extends UHF LOS, and APCO P-25 frequency coverage to the 700/800 MHz band. AN/PRC-152 can store multiple mission plan files to extend adaptability of fielded radios. With the unique wireless cloning feature, squads of radios can be quickly and securely reconfigured to meet dynamic operational needs.

The radio is supporting the transition to JTRS technology, i.e. the U.S. DoD program to develop a family of software-defined tactical radios that enable networks for sending and receiving voice, data and video tactical communications on the battlefield. Already in use by all branches of the U.S. Department of Defense, many of its allies, and U.S. federal agencies, the software upgradeable AN/PRC-152 satisfies the evolving mission requirements of warfighters by delivering secure, real-time information and communication at all points of need during coordination, combat, and crisis.

The Falcon II AN/PRC-150(C) is part of the most-widely deployed family of HF radios and the only one to offer NSA-certified Type-1 information security. The radio covers the 1.6 MHz to 60 MHz frequency range and comes with a removable keypad/display unit.

Falcon II® AN/PRC-150(C)

Designed to provide soldiers with secure voice and data communications, even in the harshest conditions, AN/PRC-150(C) military HF radios have been deployed by US and coalition forces enabling them to stay connected to mission critical information during missions where line of sight communications are not an option. The radio exploits a software-defined platform which enables adaptability to changing mission requirements through software upgrades. The AN/PRC-150(C) features Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) and high performance Third Generation ALE (3G) to provide linking and error-free data performance. Its advanced frequency hopping ensures consistent, secure communications even in the presence of jamming.
Comments

"This order expands our ongoing collaboration with the Australian Department of Defence, which is working toward developing a networked Australian brigade in 2013," said Brendan O'Connell, president, International Business, Harris RF Communications. "Our solutions and proven expertise in tactical communications are making a difference for ADF forces by delivering voice, video and data across the battlefield. We're also providing the ADF with world-class field support, highlighted by the recent opening of our regional headquarters in Brisbane."

The Context

On May 2011, the Australian Government gave first pass approval to Joint Project 2072 Phase 2B, which is aimed at providing the ADF with a next generation telecommunications network capability. This capability will provide a modern, deployable communications system that enables the transmission of information over a range of wired and wireless networking services, such as radios, satellite and computer servers and terminals. Joint Project 2072 Phase 2B is cost capped between $100 million and $500 million, and it will enable Army and elements of the Air Force to replace ageing mobile communications infrastructure services and provide commanders with an increased level of situational awareness, command and control and information sharing capability.

Related Posts

• Harris introduces the new Falcon III handeld radio upgrade for network-enabled dismounted soldiers.
• Harris introduces multi-UAS controlling capabilities on Falcon III Radios.

References: Harris (1,2,3), Defence Market Intelligence (4)

Contract Award: Harris to support Brazilian Army's modernization programs

News Report

As announced in a recent press release, Harris has received orders totaling $10.7 million from the Federative Republic of Brazil for Falcon III VHF Combat Net Radios and Falcon III Secure Personal Radios (SPR) to support a wide range of mission requirements.

Brazil is acquiring the Harris RF-7800V vehicular radio system and RF-7800S SPR to provide its armed forces with advanced voice and high-speed data communication capabilities. The RF-7800V system, for use in tanks, transport and other vehicles, delivers range, data speeds and throughput that are unmatched by any other combat net radio on the market. The RF-7800S is a wideband networking radio designed for the emerging demands for voice, data and situational awareness at the soldier level.

Harris received the orders from Brazil's Center for Communications and Electronic Warfare (CCOMGEX).

Even if not explicitly reported by other news sources, this acquisition is expected to be part of the two key modernization programs that are ongoing within the Brazilian Army, i.e. the SISFRON (Sistema Integrado de Monitoramento de Fronteiras), and the Projeto Brigada Braço Forte. Both the two programs are managed by the CCOMGEX, with the support of two Brazilian entities (i.e. Atech and CESAR, the Centro de Estudos e Sistemas Avançados do Recife) that have been conctracted by the Center with the objective of producing system requirements and identifying the best solutions that are available in the defence market for satisfying Brazilian Army's new operational requirements.

As further detailed by Harris, the company plans to expand its manufacturing capacity in Brazil. The planned increase in capacity is part of an overall company expansion in Brazil, one of the world's fastest-growing economies. Harris expects to begin conducting final assembly of the Falcon III RF-7800S and RF-7800V at an existing manufacturing facility. These radios will be delivered to the Brazil Ministry of Defense, including the CCOMGEX, to provide its armed forces with next-generation line-of-sight tactical communications.

Harris has more than 120 employees in Brazil supporting customers in tactical, public safety and government communications and integrated networking solutions. This includes a factory operation in Campinas, Brazil; design, development, support and sales offices in Sao Paulo, SP, Rio de Janeiro, RJ and Macae, RJ; and support offices in Brasilia and Manaus.

The Technology

Harris' RF-7800V family covers the 30 MHz to 108 MHz frequency range and supports data rates up to 192 Kbps, making it the fastest combat net radio available today. The RF-7800V also provides time-critical BMS reports, while delivering simultaneous networked voice and data communications to multiple users. Additionally, the RF-7800V offers Free-Channel Search and dual push-to-talk capabilities for enhanced agility in high-noise or jammed environments.

Harris' Vehicular Base VHF Radio System

Harris' RF-7800S is a lightweight soldier system radio that offers full-duplex voice, dual push-to-talk capabilities and data rates up to 256 Kbps. The radio allows simultaneous communication for voice, data and video with listeners over a range of more than two kilometers. Optimized for maximum performance across highly variable environments, the RF-7800S secure personal role radio provides continuous coverage in the 350 to 450 MHz frequency range. The RF-7800S secure personal radio has been adopted as the standardized personal radio platform for multiple soldier modernization programs around the world.

Harris' RF-7800S

Comments

"The RF-7800V and RF-7800S will provide Brazil's Army with secure voice and high-bandwidth data applications such as video combat chat," said Julio Villafane, regional managing director, Caribbean and Latin America Region, Harris RF Communications. "Both radios enable end-to-end solutions that address requirements for real-time, mission-critical information on the battlefield. Harris is proud to work with the Brazilian armed forces on its tactical radio modernization needs."

"Harris is committed to serving as a trusted partner for mission-critical communication products and systems in Brazil in the broadest possible way," said Brendan O'Connell, president, International Business, Harris RF Communications. "Once in place, our local operations will help create new highly skilled jobs within the national defense and public security sectors and provide benefits to our customers, including improved lead time and more direct access to our world-class customer support teams."

The Context

As already anticipated, the two main programs that are currently managed by the Brazilian Army's CCOMGEX are the SISFRON and the Projeto Brigada Braço Forte.

SISFRON (Sistema Integrado de Monitoramento de Fronteiras) is an integrated system of satellites, communications equipments, sensors, armoured vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones) to monitor Brazilian land borders. Around 10 billion reais ($6.3bn) will be allocated the project to be spent up to 2019. Last year was focused in the specification of system requirements, while 2012 is dedicated to start-up the implementation of a pilot project that includes acquisition of tactical radios, ground surveillance radars, cameras, as well as the upgrading of the current Brazilian Army's Command and Control system. All the large Brazilian companies (Embraer, Andrade Gutierrez, Odebrecht, Camargo Corrêa) are positioning themselves for the role of prime contractor for the program. International companies such as Thales, EADS, SELEX Sistemi Integrati, Indra, Elbit and Saab supported both the CCOMGEX and Atech for shaping the SISFRON system requirements (a Request for Information was issued last year) and they will eventually participate in the system development by partnering with the selected brazilian contractors.

Projeto Brigada Braço Forte is a $2 billion project to equip Brazilian Army with radios, command and control, intelligence and law enforcement systems to prevent and combat terrorism in the Country. Such acquisitions are required because Brazilian Army is experiencing a rate of obsolescence of tactical equipments that sometimes exceeds the 92%, and this has affected the capacity for coordinating and controlling the troops when they are employed for emergency actions.

References: Harris (1,2), InterAmericanSecurityWatch (3), BlogDefesa.br (4)

Contract Award: Harris to provide interoperable communications for Montgomery's safety operators

News Report

As announced in a recent press release, Harris has been awarded a $7.3 million contract by the Montgomery Metro Communications Cooperative District (MMCCD) to design and implement a standards-based digital radio system in the City and County of Montgomery, Alabama, home to more than 222,000 residents. The contract was awarded in June, 2011.

The Harris P25^IP 800 MHz radio system will enable reliable, interoperable communications for MMCCD's 2,400 users, including upwards of 1,500 first responders, with surrounding agencies. The Harris P25^IP system will provide a cost-effective migration path from Montgomery's legacy EDACS system, minimizing disruption to public safety agencies. The contract also includes Harris M7300 mobile radios, P7300 and P5250 portable radios and CS7000 control stations for future-ready P25 Phase 2 operation.
The Technology

Public safety radio systems (such as those used by police, firefighters and emergency medical technicians) operate in several portions of the 800 MHz band, which consists of spectrum at 806-824 MHz paired with spectrum at 851-869 MHz. The 800 MHz band is also home to commercial wireless carriers and private radio systems. In 2004, the FCC reconfigured the band plan for 800 MHz to separate public safety systems in the band from commercial wireless systems using cellular architecture.

APCO (Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials International) Project 25 is a suite of digital Land Mobile Radio standards developed by public safety professionals, for public safety professionals operating in North America within the FCC assigned bands. P25 specifies a number of “interfaces” between different system elements including the Inter Subsystem Interface (ISSI) and the Common Air Interface (CAI). These standard interfaces are necessary to achieve two of P25’s most important goals – Interoperability and Competition. In this regard, P25 fills the same role as the European Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA) protocol, although not interoperable with it.

Harris P25^IP terminals, using the P25 CAI, provide maximum flexibility because they can operate on Harris P25^IP systems or on Project 25-compliant systems from other manufacturers. In addition to P25IP, Harris’ multi-mode radios support several different wireless protocols including OpenSky, EDACS and analog conventional. This multi-mode capability allows customers to migrate from legacy systems to P25IP systems gradually, as permitted by agency budgets.

The Harris P25^IP system uses the power of the Harris VIDA network, which provides network-level interoperable communications with other public safety agencies. The Harris P25^IP system will consist of five sites to accommodate the needs of first responders across Montgomery County, and can expand to accommodate the communication needs of neighboring counties in the future if needed.

The Harris VIDA network platform is a unified IP-based voice and data communication system based on APCO P25 industry standards. VIDA delivers full IP management features, including interoperability without intervention of console operators; IP consoles; and other benefits inherent in open IP architecture systems. The new P25 system complies with both the current P25 Phase 1 standard and the emerging P25 Phase 2 industry standards.

The Context

In the examination of their current and future needs, public safety communications agencies identified several factors that pointed to the need to develop advanced digital two-way communications to replace aging and spectrally inefficient analog systems, i.e. the growing scarcity of available radio spectrum, better voice quality over greater areas, the growing demand for the integration of new, bandwidth intensive, data functions, and security concerns. In the U.S., the Project 25 initiative has brought together a wide array of local, state, and government agencies with support from the U.S. Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) to evaluate and develop a new standard for digital two-way radio. Co-chaired by APCO International and the National Association of State Telecommunications Directors (NASTD), a steering committee was given the job of evaluating the plethora of technologies. Several sub-committees, in-turn, provide the technical expertise to research a number of specialized areas. Aeroflex, through its association with the Telecommunications Industrial Association, has been a key contributor to researching and defining testing parameters for the new standard.

The principle guiding the work of the steering committee was to establish an open narrowband digital radio standard so that multiple vendors could compete for contracts to supply compliant networks with interoperable products. Secondary principles include achieving maximum radio spectrum efficiency and simplifying P25 equipment.

Comments

"The MMCCD is committed to providing the best possible service to citizens and responders, and we recognized the need to migrate to a standards-based system to increase the interoperable capabilities of our emergency response," said Chief Deputy Derrick Cunningham, Chairman of the MMCCD Board. "After a thorough evaluation and review process, we selected the Harris P25^IP system as the best choice to meet the needs of public safety forces today and moving into the future. We are investing in standards-based equipment while still utilizing our legacy equipment to reduce costs."

"With the Harris P25^IP system, the MMCCD is receiving one of the most flexible, scalable and reliable radio solutions available today," said Steve Marschilok, president, Harris Public Safety and Professional Communications. "This solution allows the City and County of Montgomery to undergo a seamless migration from the existing EDACS system to their communications platform for the future."

References: Harris (1,3), FCC (2), P25.com (3)

Harris introduces multi-UAS controlling capabilities on Falcon III Radios.

Harris RF-7800T Hand Held Situational Awareness Video Receiver

News Report

As reported in a recent press release, Harris is broadening the capabilities of its RF-7800T Situational Awareness Video Receiver (SAVR) to address growing requirements for secure wireless digital intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance video at the tactical edge. Specifically, Harris has integrated the Small Unmanned Aerial Systems Digital Data Link waveform (SUAS-DDL) with the RF-7800T video receiver. With SUAS-DDL, the RF-7800T is now able to receive Advanced Encryption Standard video feeds from multiple small Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) simultaneously.


The Technology

SUAS-DDL, a U.S. Department of Defense standard waveform, provides enhanced interoperability between small UAS in the air and video receivers and control stations on the ground. The characteristics of the waveform allow multiple UAS to transmit video on the same frequency. This enables warfighters to monitor intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) video streams covering a wider geographic area, leading to enhanced command and control and operational decision-making.

The multiband RF-7800T Situational Awareness Video Receiver (SAVR) delivers real-time video feeds from cameras on aircraft or UAS platforms to ground forces. Designed for the dismounted warfighter as well as for fixed and vehicular applications, the small, lightweight RF-7800T enables feeds to be viewed outside the Tactical Operations Centre and while personnel are on the move.

As a member of the combat-proven Falcon III family of radios, the RF-7800T leverages the Falcon III SCA architecture (Software Communications Architecture), allowing the product to remain on the cusp of emerging data link standards through software upgrades. Video feeds from the RF-7800T are easily disseminated over Falcon III radio networks.

Comments

"The addition of SUAS-DDL adds greater capability to our SAVR video receiver," said Dana Mehnert, group president, Harris RF Communications. "Users will be able to switch easily between multiple video and data feeds, providing them with critical real-time information. Lightweight and portable, the SAVR provides these feeds directly to the individual warfighter."

References: Harris (1)

NGEN Update: less than five potential bidders will compete on price

The Context

Here in this blog we already discussed about the draft request for proposal that was issued by US Navy under the Next Generation Enterprise Network program (NGEN), i.e. the follow-on to the Navy Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI), the US Department of Navy’s current shore-based network and operating environment. NGEN will supply a secure information technology infrastructure for the continental United States and select locations overseas.

NGEN is aimed at delivering information transport services and provide access to core enterprise applications for the warfighter and those who support them. NGEN provides the foundation for the US Department of Navy’s future Naval Networking Environment, which is envisioned to be a fully integrated enterprise-wide networking environment where data and services are ubiquitously available to Department of Navy users.

The US Navy had already spent more that $430 million on NGEN. The whole program was expected to cost $50 billion through 2025.

News Report

As reported by GovconWire and other news sources, the US Navy will use price as its standard when it awards the Next-Generation Enterprise Network contract, according to Capt. Shawn Hendricks, manager of the Naval Enterprise Networks Program Office. At a industry briefing Friday, Hendricks said the network will likely cost $10 billion over five years, double what the Navy spent on its previous large network contract, the Navy Marine Corps Intranet (originally awarded to EDS, now HP, in 2000).


Hendricks described NGEN as the largest federal IT contract that he is aware of today, designed to provide commercial applications and network connections to more than 400,000 computers and more than 750,000 Navy and Marine end users. The NGEN contractor will provide data centers and base and local area networks, but not long-distance networks, which the Defense Information Systems Agency will provide.

Based on responses from industry to date on draft proposal requests, Hendricks said, there are fewer than five potential bidders that can meet the criteria set out in those drafts.

Unlike NMCI, which is operated by a single contractor — Hewlett-Packard — NGEN management will likely be divided among several different organizations, including the US Navy. After completion, NGEN will give increased network command and control responsibilities to US Navy and Marine users. “The Navy has wanted to take back ownership of the network and has certainly wanted to exercise more direct control of the operation of the network than did in NMCI,” said Pat Tracey, vice president of defense industry development at HP Enterprise Services.

The US Navy’s segmented approach to NGEN, in addition to the project’s massive size and scope, has led to the creation of several contractor teams, including an alliance led by HP, which is bidding on individual NGEN aspects, such as hardware, software, network transport services, enterprise services and security operations. Other project bidders include Accenture, Computer Sciences Corp., General Dynamics, Harris, Lockheed Martin and Raytheon.

A final request for proposals is due Dec. 21, 2011 with the contract to be awarded in December 2012. The network must be ready for operation April 30, 2014, when the NMCI contract ends (the Navy Marine Corps Intranet)

References: GovconWire (1), NextGov (2), DefenseSystems.com (3)

AT&T and Harris to form an alliance for next-gen LTE wireless solutions

News Report

As announced in a recent press release, AT&T and Harris are forming an alliance to develop and deliver next generation LTE wireless solutions for agencies and first responders whose lifesaving efforts depend on timely access to critical information. Together, AT&T and Harris are exploring opportunities to provide first responders with broadband and mission critical communications systems that will enable high-speed video and data solutions. Users would benefit from network agility that delivers highly-secure, highly-reliable connectivity where and when they need it.

AT&T and Harris would bring extensive experience supporting public safety and government customers, as well as expertise in broadband and mission critical network construction and integration, interoperable device manufacturing, and network service management. As a result of this alliance, public safety agencies would benefit from a unified experience driven by integration of broadband and narrowband Land Mobile Radio (LMR) networks, multiple business models to fit agencies' needs and resources, seamless roaming and nationwide interoperability using AT&T's 4G network (when outside the public safety LTE network coverage area), and a broader portfolio of wireless devices and applications designed for both commercial and public safety broadband networks.

The companies will work together to deliver a set of solutions that include:

• Handheld, vehicle-mounted and peripheral LTE-compatible devices
• Mission-critical broadband applications
• Seamless access to both private and public networks for public safety agencies
• Network management, applications and support systems
• Integrated Broadband/Project 25 infrastructure and devices

The Technology

LTE (Long Term Evolution) is a wireless broadband technology designed to support mobile Internet access via cell phones and handheld devices. LTE is sometimes called 4G, or fourth generation, technology.

Although there are major step changes between LTE and its 3G predecessors, it is nevertheless looked upon as an evolution of the UMTS / 3GPP 3G standards. Although it uses a different form of radio interface, using OFDMA / SC-FDMA instead of CDMA, there are many similarities with the earlier forms of 3G architecture and there is scope for much re-use.

LTE can be seen for provide a further evolution of functionality, increased speeds and general improved performance.

LTE is the fourth-generation mobile wireless technology favored by public safety. Perhaps more important to public safety is that LTE’s uplink data rates will be between 2 Mb/s and 5 Mb/s, which typically is enough bandwidth to allow the transmission of video from an incident scene. This capability will present a substantial improvement over the current land mobile radio (LMR) networks, designed primarily for voice communications, which can't meet today's need for high-speed mobile data services.

The Context

Initiated in 2004, the Long Term Evolution (LTE) project focused on enhancing the Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA) and optimizing 3GPP’s radio access architecture. Targets were to have average user throughput of three- to four-times the Release 6 HSDPA levels in the Downlink (100Mbps), and two to three times the HSUPA levels in the Uplink (50Mbps).

In 2007, the LTE of the 3rd generation radio access technology – "E UTRA" – progressed from the feasibility study stage to the first issue of approved Technical Specifications.

By the end of 2008, the specifications were sufficiently stable for commercial implementation.
Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) was selected for the Downlink and Single Carrier-Frequency Division Multiple Access (SC-FDMA) for the Uplink.

Many operators have not yet upgraded their basic 3G networks, and 3GPP LTE is seen as the next logical step for many operators, who will leapfrog straight from basic 3G straight to LTE as this will avoid providing several stages of upgrade. The use of LTE will also provide the data capabilities that will be required for many years and until the full launch of the full 4G standards known as LTE Advanced.

US nation's public-safety groups have recently agreed to use LTE in the 700MHz band to deliver mobile broadband applications used by police, fire and emergency medical services. By doing so, they'll be able to take advantage of wireless broadband-which is essential for support of mission-critical services that accelerate response times, improve situational awareness-to increase the safety of the public and all personnel.

Specifically, on January 2011 the U.S. Federal Communications Commission has set LTE as the data standard for a nationwide mobile broadband network for public safety agencies that's been on the table for nearly a decade. The FCC, in a unanimous vote, adopted LTE as the common interface for the network, which will use a portion of the 700MHz spectrum. U.S. lawmakers and FCC members have been calling for a nationwide mobile broadband network for police and fire departments since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the US. Many of the police and fire departments responding to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in the U.S. couldn't talk to each other because they weren't using the same radio equipment on the same spectrum bands.

The FCC doesn't typically pick technology standards, but in this case it was needed, said FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski. "In order to ensure nationwide interoperability for public safety communications there's widespread agreement that a common air interface is desirable and necessary to enable nationwide interoperability," he said.

Comments

"This alliance is a first step toward making next-generation technology and services available to agencies who seek competitive options," said Chris Hill, AT&T Vice President of Advanced Business Solutions. "It's the beginning of a public safety ecosystem of open devices and applications interoperable with private broadband networks, as they become available."

"Harris has extensive experience in mission-critical communications, and a legacy of bringing new technology, such as LTE to public safety and government customers," said Steve Marschilok, President of Harris Public Safety and Professional Communications. "This alliance will look to expand the choices for a growing set of solutions that can be deployed to create an advanced, mission-critical broadband experience for public safety."

References: Harris (1), AT&T (2), RadioElectronics.com (3), 3GPP (4,5), FierceWireless (6), NetworkWorld (7)

JTRS GMR: program terminated

News Report

As announced by InsideDefense.com and then reported by several other news sources, the US Defense Department communicated that the US Army's Joint Tactical Radio System Ground Mobile Radio program (JTRS GMR) has been terminated.

"I can confirm the program has been terminated," said Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Melinda Morgan, a Pentagon spokeswoman. A notice from Frank Kendall, the acting under secretary for acquisition, was sent to the House of Representatives' and Senate Armed Services Committees on last Thursday night, she said.

The System

The Joint Tactical Radio System, Ground Mobile Radios (JTRS GMR) is a software-programmable radio system providing secure, reliable, multi-channel voice, data, imagery and video communications for mobile military users. The system was expected to deliver networked communications on-the-move at the tactical edge supporting information sharing and combat readiness between service branches.

The JTRS is built on the Software Communications Architecture (SCA), an open-architecture framework that tells designers how hardware and software are to operate in harmony. It governs the structure and operation of the JTRS, enabling programmable radios to load waveforms, run applications, and be networked into an integrated system. A Core Framework, providing a standard operating environment, must be implemented on every hardware set. Interoperability among radio sets is increased because the same waveform software can be easily ported to all radios.

The Object Management Group (OMG), a not-for-profit consortium that produces and maintains computer industry specifications for interoperable enterprise applications, is working toward building an international commercial standard based on the SCA.

The US Army hasn’t released its most current assessment of the radio, which was scrutinized this year in a six-week Network Integration Evaluation field exercise at Fort Bliss, Texas, and White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, with other JTRS radios. In a systems integration test last year, the radio “continued to demonstrate deficiencies” it had in 2009, including difficulty establishing a network and low message completion rates, the Pentagon’s director of operational testing reported.

The Context

Boeing is the prime contractor for the JTRS GMR program. Other team members include Northrop Grumman (ground vehicle systems integration and network management), Rockwell Collins (waveform and hardware development), BAE Systems (waveform and hardware development), Harris (hardware).

The JTRS program has been beset by delays and cost overruns. Problems included a decentralized management structure, changing requirements, and unexpected technical difficulties that increased size and weight goals that made it harder to add the required waveforms. Large cost overruns and numerous schedule delays forced the US Army's hand in canceling the JTRS Ground Mobile Radio system. To that end, US DoD has told Lockheed Martin, the prime contractor of the air and sea version of JTRS, to restructure that program with an eye toward affordability.

The program has been canceled in line with the Nunn-McCurdy statute, which calls for a program's termination once unit-procurement costs exceed the original estimate by 25 percent unless it is deemed essential to national security. Concerning the JTRS GMR program, the statute was triggered after the planned purchase was slashed over the summer from 86,209 radios to 10,293. That reduction caused the radio’s unit price to rise by more than 50 percent, triggering the cost reporting law.

The US Army now plans to conduct a full and open competition early next year for a lower-cost alternative, said Major Christopher Kasker, a US Army spokesman. US Army spokesmans also reiterated that the backbone of the Army's networking strategy will be the waveforms and not the specific hardware transmitting them.

References: InsideDefense.com (1), Chicago Tribune (2), GAO (3), Boeing (4), AOL Defense (5), Bloomberg (6)

Boeing demonstrates advanced satellite communications in support of US command and control

References: Boeing (1, 2), SatNews (3), GlobalSecurity (4)

News Report

As announced in a recent press release, Boeing announced that it has successfully demonstrated high-data-rate transmissions between a Family of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals (FAB-T) and a test terminal for the Advanced Extremely High Frequency satellite (AEHF). This was one in a series of development tests that are demonstrating extended data rate voice, text and data communication with a FAB-T unit.

FAB-T will provide the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy with protected wideband satellite communications in support of command and control of U.S. nuclear forces.

The Technology

The FAB-T Nuclear Command and Control Network and Communication System program develops the architecture to support a family of satellite communications terminals for airborne, ground-fixed and ground-transportable applications. FAB-T provides the critical link enabling strategic nuclear command and control using the Milstar Extremely High Frequency (EHF) and Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) waveforms. This capability enables the command and control of the AEHF and Milstar satellites and provides the President and strategic leadership the secure communications with forces to direct a strategic nuclear response.

FAB-T is an information and communications system, rather than a simple satellite radio terminal. The system is modular, reconfigurable, scalable and upgradeable. FAB-T provides multiple channels to enable simultaneous links via various beyond line-of-sight capabilities. The system is programmable and reconfigurable, allowing high-data-rate communications to be customized by the warfighter in the theater. FAB-T provides the framework for the highest data exchange rates available, providing communications on the move.

The recent demonstration, conducted in August at Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems in Redondo Beach, Calif., involved a FAB-T unit and an AEHF Universal System Test Terminal (AUST-T) communicating through a ground AEHF payload.

Using the latest program hardware, the terminal team successfully conducted extended data rate (XDR) re-key, XDR text communications, and dual FAB-T log-on with the AEHF payload. In separate testing essential to operating the fielded FAB-T system, Boeing also interfaced with the AEHF Satellite Mission Control Subsystem, demonstrating XDR capability with the AEHF ground satellite.

The Context

Boeing is working to provide the US Air Force with a fully capable, affordable system that supports the existing Milstar satellite constellation, its ground and airborne command-and-control terminals and the new AEHF satellite constellation. The program continues to make measurable progress against its planned baseline.

FAB-T is managed by the US MILSATCOM Systems Directorate at Los Angeles, California. The MILSATCOM Systems Directorate executes an annual budget over $2.4B as it plans for, acquires and sustains space-based global communications in support of the President, Secretary of Defense, and combat forces. The MILSATCOM enterprise consists of satellites, terminals and control stations and provides communications for over 16,000 air, land and sea platforms.

Boeing has assembled for FAB-T a best-of-industry team, comprised of the nation's leading satellite systems, communications terminals and high performance data link providers, to execute the terms of the contract for the first increment. Principal members include Harris, L-3, TRW and ViaSat.

The FAB-T program completed an Integrated Baseline Review in September of 2010 and expects to complete full capability terminal functional qualification in 2012, flight testing in 1QFY2013 and exercise low rate initial production option in 3QFY2013.

In April 2011, the U.S. Air Force installed, integrated and successfully flight-tested a FAB-T on a test version of an RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft. The flight test demonstrated successful integration on the RC-135 aircraft using the FAB-T platform integration interface control documentation. The flight test team communicated from the air with test locations on the ground via a Milstar satellite. As part of the in-flight testing, voice, data, and text were shared between the aircraft and the ground users who were part of the demonstration network.
Boeing is conducting hardware qualification, and integration is continuing on the extended data rate (XDR) software for the system. There are many test events planned with the AEHF and Milstar satellites, including the flight test and interoperability testing with other EHF terminals. Boeing and the Air Force have multiple intersegment and satellite payload tests planned prior to on-orbit testing. FAB-T's XDR capability will provide US Air Force personnel with anti-jam, low probability of interception (LPI), low probability of detection (LPD), and improved data rates compared with earlier systems and software.

Comments

"With more than half of the system integration tests successfully completed, the FAB-T program is well on its way to starting system qualification testing in 2012," said Paul Geery, Boeing FAB-T vice president and program manager. "Boeing is committed to ensuring that the FAB-T program is successful and that we can deliver this advanced capability to the warfighter."

"These demonstrations are key progress indicators toward the start of functional qualification tests and increase warfighter confidence that FAB-T will support the required missions," Geery said.

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