|
The first phase of the IDF Digital Army Program (DAP)
is based on Elbit System's TORC2H Command and Control (C2) system.
Since its fielding in 2005 the system has improved the management and
control of military operations along the borders, within the area of
the west bank and around the Gaza strip, and seals the border from
infiltration. Every vehicle in the brigades equipped with the system
links to TORC2H via wireless communications, utilizing vehicle mounted toughbook ruggedized laptop computers, and PC workstations in command
posts. Ruggedized PDAs are used on dismounted operations. The system
provides real-time situational assessment, and efficient command and
control of operations, sensors and intercepts.
Three types of command posts will be used – static, deployed (using
tents, mobile shelters, trucks and APCs, which could also be used as
mobile CPs) and LIC CPs, located at fixed sites. Deployed CPs will
demand much of the spending on hardware, to replace today's divisional
HQ's tent cities. The new DCP will have many advantages. New
networking architecture will reduced electromagnetic and thermal
signatures by using remote controlled radio emitters, and flexible
deployments distributed over wide area, reduce visible signature.
Operations centers will be assembled in "expando" 20 foot
ISO-containers, (PLD) which are expanded into triple-wide work area
when deployed. Each shelter will use standard pre-configured COTS
power distribution, intercommunications, PCs, networking and
communications hardware to simplify operation and logistics support.
Deployment of DAP is planned in a spiral cycle. The initial deployment
of phase 1 also known as Masua 20 was announced in March 2005,
followed by deployment of phase 2 (LIC phase I or Masua 100) July
2005, just in time to support the IDF disengagement from Gaza. At this
phase DAP is expected to include five brigades. Version 3 is expected
to support LIC operations at the divisional level (Masua 200). Version
4, the fully deployed system, will be designated Masua 600.
TORC2H's user interface is optimized for functionality and ease of use
at tactical field levels. The system reduces voice communications over
crowded combat net radio networks, accelerates decision making, and
enables small units to effectively cooperate in combined arms
operations. Although TORC2H was designed specifically for LIC, the IDF
plans to use similar systems and identical user interfaces as common
system for all levels of conflict. Current systems are deployed in
specific areas but ultimately, the system will not be associated with
a specific territory or command, and should enable unit's redeployment
to different commands or theaters without degradation of service. The
system comprises a flexible order-of battle force structuring, to
enable efficient teaming at all levels, maximizing the utilization of
scarce resources, such as UAV, helicopters, precision guided weapons,
etc, which are not assigned to the combat units on a permanent basis.
* This update was presented to Defense Update at a
conference held at the IDEF defense show in Turkey, September 2005 |
