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The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) "Ground Forces
Digitalization" Program (Hebrew acronym ZAYAD) aims at linking the "sensors" and "shooters"
across all command levels, down to the single soldier. The program will
improve inter-networking
of task forces and units operating throughout the theater of operation,
enable flexible formation of combined task forces and improve the coordination
and situational awareness at all levels of operations. The program will
integrate to existing systems, including the strategic command, and battle
management systems, currently available below the brigade level.
The program will also integrate with the IDF
future infantry combat system, currently under development at Elbit.
ZAYAD at the Division
Level
At the division level, the program will implement dramatic changes, with the
introduction of shelter-based computerized tactical operations centers,
which will enable commanders to effectively monitor the situation in real
time. These centers are fully equipped with all communications, processing,
display, power distribution, and wiring required for operations. For voice
communications digital communications will utilize Voice over IP technology,
for maximum flexibility and optimal use of the spectrum. This technology
offers automatic routing of calls to the most efficient channel and
prioritization of high priority calls to maintain reliable links at the most
critical phases of combat. Below the division level,
high capacity data radios
are expected to provide support for digital communications, both for
stationary and on-the-move applications. Multiple Line-Of-Sight communication systems,
currently supporting the division's communications channels to higher
echelons and subordinate units, are also expected to be replaced by
broadband satellite terminal, to facilitate seamless connectivity over a
wide geographic area. Terrestrial LOS systems will continue to provide
broadband data networking at much larger capacities (up to 155 MBps) using
new mobile SDH communications terminals.
Computerized TOC
The computerized TOC is designed for rapid setup and could be fully
operational within 30 minutes of deployment. Other assets are used for
command on the move. The system will also enhance the IDF capability to create flexible, task
oriented forces. It is based on advanced hardware and software C4I
technologies. The Program will enable coordination between forces at
different command levels, provide situational awareness to maneuvering
forces, improve the overall operational capabilities, including
survivability and accuracy, while efficiently utilizing manpower and other
resources.
Tactical
Internet Implementation
An important requirement of the new network is the capability every
authorized user to transmit, receive and view high resolution still format,
as well as live video from any sensors (including ground observations, BMS
sight views, UAVs etc). This capability requires an optimized distribution
of data, and the economical utilization of available spectrum. One of the
solutions considered for this requirement is the implementation of the
Tactical Internet Geographic Dissemination concept (TIGER) developed by
Elbit Systems. Subscribers to the TIGER system automatically receive, store
and distribute information, based on various parameters, including their
geographical location and hierarchical placement in the command system.
TIGER automatically update the communications channels and C2 systems of
units when they are moving into a new area, or as ad-hoc task force
are formed. Furthermore, the redundancy and survivability of the system are
improved, as every subscriber is also a node, there is no "single point of
failure", and the entire system can continue to function even under degraded
conditions (countermeasures, interference or attack). Under the Program,
the existing ground forces Command, Control and Communications systems of the ground
forces will be integrated, combining systems and applications developed and
matured by Elbit Systems, the prime contractor as well as other
subcontractors, including Tadiran Systems and Rafael. The Program includes
development, supply and support of software and hardware, such as command
and control consoles and terminals as well as information and image
processing and dissemination systems. The cost of the multi-year program is estimated
at over $200 million. Additional funding is expected to be added in US
Foreign Military Sales, for the procurement of hardware systems for
the program. Elbit received the contract on December 2004 and is
expected to deliver the full system within ten years.
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