Command and Control : MDM provided an interesting insight into the advanced command and control systems developed for and by the USMC. The centerpiece of the C4 display was provided by General Dynamics C4 Systems, demonstrating the future Command Operations Center (COC) for the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Command and Control center, as well as the latest communications, information processing and distribution applications. Dismounted C2 systems and Command and Control On-the-Move (COTM) were demonstrated by a number of exhibitors. Another facet of C4ISR discussed here was image intelligence – different providers demonstrated innovative applications, including unattended ground sensors, GPS cameras operated by patrols, elevated mast-mounted payloads etc.
The Marine Combat Operations Center (COC)
Numerous COC are employed by US Marine Corps Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) units deployed in Iraq and more systems are being delivered to support other units operating worldwide. Of 271 systems ordered, GD has already delivered 102. The COC is designed for rapid deployment, using trailers mounting a power and environmental support unit, with another trailer packing all servers, routers and other communications and networking support. Outside at the main display at the exhibition grounds at Quantico, a large tent accommodated a typical Combat Operations Center (COC) was erected. The display provided a unique insight into the Marine Corps’ current and future command and control elements comprising the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Command and Control center.
Networking inside the COC utilized high speed Ethernet or wireless networks, using the Secure Wireless Infrastructure System (SWIS) developed by General Dynamics (GD) Information Technology. SWIS operates Secure 802.11 wireless LAN solution to extend wireless connectivity to high security (NSA Type 1 encryption) applications, including field deployable military command and control. Further exploiting this secure wireless connectivity, GD is offering a number of military oriented computing devices supporting
internet, email, chat, phone video streaming and conferencing. Typical devices include the GoBook VR mini laptop, GoBook tablet PC and pocket PC devices.
GD C4S also demonstrated its latest digital radio switching system at the COC. The Distributed Scalable AccessNet (DSAN) a Voice over IP (VOIP) softswitch facilitating intercom support and seamless connectivity through network-connected radios. DSAN can be implemented on stand-alone access points or as an overlay on standard workstations, enabling users equipped with DSAN applications or monitors to control multiple radios transceivers, conduct phone conversations and conferences (supporting the H.323 industry standard) contacting local users on the intercom, from a single
user-interface.
The live display also provided an insight into the company’s field deployable command and control solutions. A typical application for the COC is the Marine Air Ground Task Force Command and Control (MAGTF-C2) center. Within the MAGTF-C2 environment, information is integrated, aggregated and distributed from disparate C2 and ISR systems to users at all echelons – ranging from the command center to the individual soldier. The MAGTF-C2 concept allows for visualization of a complete air/ground picture, improving Marine planning and execution, while supporting joint forces interoperability. The system utilized General Dynamics C4Systems’ common viewer, facilitating three-dimensional air/ground views and two-dimensional collaborative environment developed for the US Army style ‘Command Post of the Future” (CPOF) system. CPOF applications will be introduced in the standard COC in upcoming months, and are expected to substatianlly improve work efficiency at the COC through collaboration and maintenance of constantly updated COP. Such applications could also be shared, to a limited extent, with command and control of combat elements on the move, considered for deployment in the upcoming months.
In a different display Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and the Office of Naval Research introduced a collective display of their Joint Battlespace Viewerm (JBV) developmental effort, a 3D visualization program providing a whole-earth representation on a modern PC. Users can view any spot on the Globe, with image resolution of up to 10 cm. These images can be integrated with 3D models and layered information. The present demonstration included live video from UAV embedded in real-time onto satellite imagery. JBV is already used by the First Marine expeditionary Force (I MEF) in Iraq.
SelectFocus Tools
In another display associated with the future combat operations center, GD C4Systems outlined the benefits of advanced image processing applications for Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) support, using the company’s SelectFocus applications. These include the SelectFocus Mosaic video mosaicking application, creating a ‘panoramic’ image in near-real-time from pre-stored or live video sequence. Through processing, SelectFocus compensates for camera translation, rotation and illumination variations generating a coherent image. The system’s output is translated into standard image format, hence dramatically reducing the amount of data (or bandwidth used).
A different application, called SelecFocus Image conducts smart compression of high resolution images, facilitating image distribution over ultra-low-bandwidth communications channels (suitable for basic Iridium channels bandwidth of 2.4 kbps). This application uses a modified JPEG 2000 image coder compressing images with multiple Regions of Interest (ROI). These sections are defined by the analyst and preserved with optimal detail and resolution throughout the compression process. To ease collaboration between analysts the system integrates IP-based transmit and receive functionality for one-touch image transmission and text messaging to any
networked user. SelectFocus applications are being considered for integration in the COC environment by 2008.
Other command and control elements were highlighted by Northrop Grumman. The
company is offering Windows-based applications designed for standard PCs, enabling users at different echelons to create and share a Common Operating Picture (COP) across multiple workstations, in stationary, moving and dismounted combat environments and among multiple agencies. The company developed the Command and Control PC (C2PC) platform enabling USMC users to create and share tactical information and integrate it with information accessed through COP from the Global Command and Control System (GCCS) server. A subset of the system is implemented on Windows Mobile, the Command and Control Compact Edition (C2CE). This Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)- based device enables mobile users to share and edit the COP, while supporting local functionality such as reporting users position, location, navigation and situational awareness.
Command and Control on The Move
Lockheed Martin is developing a fleet of mobile operations centers called C2AMMO, focused on enabling C2OTM for a variety of missions and users, including military, federal and commercial applications. The vehicle can support commanders at all echelons, facilitating network access, sharing a broad common operating picture, or used as a self-sustained network node, support local operations and small units, for example, a platoon leader’s command vehicle supporting dismounted troops with local communications, cross-unit collaboration and access to higher echelon network.
The system is integrated in a Hummer H1 testbed, integrating computing, tactical radio,
wireless data (including 802.11 wi-fi, 802.16 WiMAX and secured 802.11 WLAN) and satellite communications systems. The vehicle carries low-profile on-the-move SATCOM terminals operating in the Ku and L band. The commander’s workstation consists of a detachable tablet PC, which automatically synchronizes with the network when dismounted to ensure operational continuity. Testing and evaluation of C2AMMO systems began in 2006, and in 2007 the system already participated in several joint-forces exercises including Joint Fires, and the Air Assault Expeditionary Force exercise
planned for fall 2007. Different C2 On-The-Move application integrated in a HMMWV was demonstrated at MDM 07 by DRS.
500SE-M GPS Enabled Tactical Camera
In June 2007 Defense Update covered the USMC use of compact digital cameras on patrols to collect and support generating HUMINT and IMINT intelligence through routine patrols. At MDM 07 Geo Tactical Solutions introduced a GPS embedded camera offering many details making reconnaissance and intelligence collection and report preparation a simple and intuitive process. Offering a complete geo-tactical solution, the 500SE-M GPS camera
comes in dust, drop and a waterproof impact resistant package with a large 2.5″ screen showing the images taken with superimposed grid position. This information is recorded and stored with every picture taken. After the mission, images are downloaded and processed on a laptop. The report wizard coming with the package, tracks all images plotting the mission’s trail, from GPS track-log ‘breadcrumb’. Each image automatically provides a hyperlink viewed on Google Earth or the military equivalent FalconView. The selected images are imprinted with relevant metadata and embedded into reports.
Other topics covered in this review:
- Light but Protected – Near-term HMMWV Replacements
- Bull Offers Maximum protection
- Gearing Up For the Joint Light Tactical vehicle
- JLTV Pathfinder – Combat Tactical Vehicle
- Hybrid Electric JLTV
- Specialized Off-Road Mobility
- Protecting against Blast
- HMMWV Accessories and Upgrades
- Vehicle Recovery in Combat
- Command and Control Systems
- Unmanned Ground Systems & Robotics
- Remote Weapon Systems
- Panoramic Vision Systems
- Advanced Technology for Future Vertical Lift
- Counter IED Technologies
- Weapons & Personal Gear
Recovery under fire (RUF) system designed by the Israeli automotive accessories specialist Tal&Hadas enables vehicle recovery during combat operations, specifically in dense urban terrain. The RUF enables tow vehicles to recover RUF equipped disabled vehicles without manual support, thus eliminating the need for warfighters to leave the protected vehicles and expose themselves to hostile fire. The RUF kit can be mounted on a vehicle within fire minutes, without
special tools. During the recovery the towing vehicle can approach the disabled vehicle at wide angles, and maneuver effectively in narrow streets. Tal&Hadas are currently offering the system for the HMMWV, Zeev (Ford 150 based armored vehicle), the David armored Defender, and armored Storm (Jeep based) light vehicles. A heavier version designed for the MRAP will be completed by December 2007.
Another essential accessory is the electrical door assist mechanism, designed to operate the u-armored door weighing over 400 kg (applied with FRAG 6 kit). This mechanism, introduced by BAE System’s mobility and protection systems (formerly Armor Holdings) can operate the door on level ground or up to 17 deg slope (30%), opening or closing it within five seconds. Another system that became too heavy for manual operation is the gunner protection kit. An electric traverse kit moves the turret at up to 6 rpm, under all inclinations, therefore improving the gunner’s situational awareness and response even under difficult conditions. The traverse mechanism is powered by rechargeable batteries offering independent operation regardless of the vehicle’s condition. BAE Systems also proposes an improved air conditioning and integrated cooling systems, 
designed to reduce the temperature in the simmering cabin to bearable 82 F (29 C) and further reduce the crew’s temperature to 60-70 F (15-21C), utilizing water circulating cooling vests.
Several companies presented blast protected seat technologies at Modern Day Marine and AUSA 07. For example, ArmorWorks displayed two types of blast attenuating seats of the ShockRide series. The company offers individual, folding high-back troop seats as well as driver and commander’s seats with rigid base. Both types are fitted with blast attenuating straps and frame. ArmorWorks also designed bench seats offering improved protection as well as a gunner’s post mounted seat which offers four point restraint harness and flip-up mechanism, improving comfort, access and survivability.
BAE Systems also produces different designs for mine blast, driver/passenger and troop seats. These seats can absorb energy pulses exceeding 400 G by employing vertical, fixed load wire benders providing five inches of downward stroke. (9″ or 23 cm in the troop seats). The troop seats use hinged pan for stowage when not in use. The energy absorbing system uses four point restraint, integral headrest and shoulder cushion.
Another type of blast protected seat is produced by Plasan Sasa and installed in the 
Another light tactical vehicle is proposed by the armored tactical vehicle (ATV) manufacturer Polaris Defense. The company offers the Ultra Light Tactical Vehicle with a 40 hp engine powered by gas or JP8 fuel. This vehicle configured to carry a crew of four seated side by side, is rated for payload capacity or towing of up to 1,500 lbs. The rear flat bed can be configured to carry specialist equipment such as combat recon, surveillance, sensors, or anti-tank missiles (Javelin), ammunition, supplies and litter racks for casualty evacuation.
Raytheon’s entry into the light strike vehicle field is also based on an off-road racing and extreme rock crawler derivative. But Raytheon decided to take innovation one step further introducing a powerful hybrid electric drive system, with the all-terrain vehicle called Hy-DRA (Hybrid Defense Recon Assault vehicle). The vehicle uses a diesel engine to power a generator, driving four in-hub motors for the four wheel drive. While moving in ‘stealth mode’ HyDRA can achieve speed up to 35 mph. Otherwise, hybrid powered (diesel and electrical) sustained speed top 125 mph. The hybrid electric drive offers good fuel efficiency of about 35 mpg. The vehicle can carry an M2 (0.50 Cal) or Mk-19 or minigun on a turret mount and an M240/249 on a swing arm. The vehicle has a curb weight of 2,400 lbs. carrying a crew of three, and a complement of weapons and supplies, HyDRA is internally transported in a CV-22 Osprey, CH/MH-53, CH/MH-47 and C-130. It is capable of towing 1.5 tons or carrying heavy loads of up to half a ton. Besides its role as primary propulsion for the vehicle, the four 40hp motors can also perform as generators, providing 30 kW of power for external use.
GDLS and AM General invested over $10 million for risk reduction development and maturation of this vehicle and its innovative In-Hub Hybrid Electric Drive system. AGMV has unique protection attributes, combining a hexagon shaped armored capsule for mine protection while optimizing also for side blast deflection and small-arms protection. At a gross vehicle weight of 14,000 – 16,000 lbs with integral A kit armor, protecting against small arms, mines, IEDs and blast, the new vehicle can carry payloads of up to 5,000 lbs and be air transportable in C-130, CH-53 and CH-47.
Light Utility Hybrid (LUV) from MillenWorks
UT-25-30mm Unmanned Turret Weapon Station
ILWS (ORCWS 7.62)
Small Caliber UltraLight (SCUL)
situational awareness and mission capability. The increased visibility and lightweight design minimizes eye and neck strain, common problems for pilots managing the demands of longer missions and increasingly complex rules of engagement. Additionally, the decreased size and weight of the display allows the pilot complete freedom of movement within the cockpit.
A160T
18 consecutive hours with a 300-pound payload. At AUSA Boeing displayed a model of an armed version of the A160T, loaded with an EO payload and eight Hellfire type missiles. The vehicle has a length of 35 feet and a 36-foot rotor diameter.
nd improved braking. An EOD MAARS will be equipped with a new manipulator arm having a nominal 100 lb lift capability. The arm can quickly replace the turret mounted M240B weapon, literally transforming from a remote weapons platform to an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).
General Atomics and Jadoo Power have teamed to develop power systems, replacing the heavy batteries carried by individual soldiers. The new power system is based on a fuel cell and fuel interface technology system developed by Jadoo Power, based on General Atomics’ patented ammonia borane fuel technology. In this process, the hydrogen fuel is stored in solid chemical hydride (ammonia borane). This material is decompressed to release the fuel. This material contains hydrogen twice the hydrogen volume, compared with cryogenic stored liquid hydrogen or nearly four times as compressed gaseous hydrogen (10,000 psi).
Ultralife introduced the UBBL10, a new product in its “SmartCircuit” (SMBus compliant) family of batteries. This model is compatible with the popular BB-2590 format offering full compliance with the open source SMBus communications protocol. Ultralife’s SmartCircuit batteries/charger/appliance communications improves battery efficiency over its life cycle. Ultralife offers the 2590 type package in a higher capacity version, delivering 18.4Ah in 12V mode. The battery designated UBBL09 is suitable for applications that previously used nickel-metal hydride type cells.
added while retaining Avenger’s ability to carry other weapons, including missiles and a machine gun. Boeing plans to offer AMWS and Laser Avenger as product improvements for over 600 Avengers are deployed with military users worldwide.
AMTI, a SAIC subsidiary developed the Seeker family of small robots, designed for detection and defeat of IED threats. SAIC offers two Seeker series robots – the R500E, and R421. The R-500E, weighing about 30 pounds, designed for multi-use, is applied as a low-cost device, priced for mass distribution to EOD units and other commands. Employed as a forward scout, about 1,000 feet in front of the troops, the R-500E can search for suspicious objects and identify potential IEDs by ‘sniffing’ them explosive detection sensors. If an IED is detected, R-500E or its smaller ‘brother’, R-421 can deploy an explosive charge and clear the area before the detonation. The robot carries such charges on a trailer, carrying a weight of up to 25 pounds (15 punds with the R-412). R-500E is equipped with two forward looking cameras and pan-tilt camera for recon. A microphone is also used to send back information. For night operation the robot uses an Infrared LED array.
Several systems are currently under development by US-Israeli and DARPA initiatives. A joint US-Israeli development, under Israel’s Defense Research & Development Directorate (DRDD) management currently under development at ITL, utilizes a cross-wind laser measurement concept, developed by Dr Joseph Shapira from Soreq Nuclear Research Center. This is evaluating fire control systems designed to improve the sniper team’s performance. ITL unveiled a model of this system, dubbed ‘Focus’, designed as a fire control system to be operated by the sniper team spotter, supporting up to eight sniper positions simultaneously. The system employs a laser beam that instantly measures and profiles wind-flow, creating a three-dimensional model used in the ballistic calculation. Focus will provide each sniper with individual ballistic correction, based on accurate measurements of cross-wind downrange, temperature, range and inclination.
Another device called Sniper Auxiliary Attachment Module (SAM), designed for the sniper team, was unveiled by Carl Zeiss Optronics. SAM fits 6-24×72 telescopic sights enabling marksmen to receive critical information without taking their eyes off the target. SAM has been developed to solve the problem which marksmen have in preparing the rifle while still observing, identifying and targeting a threat. At a touch of a button, users receive menu-guided information on current settings enabling them to easily determine the current position of elevation and azimuth turret settings at night, plus information indicating temperature and air pressure. Data on the weapon-tilt angle and the slant error is also displayed in the user’s field of view. When added with wind direction and speed, this information is used to calculate a ballistic solution. For spotters, the new Spotter 60 provides fatigue-free observation, clarification and precise acquisition of targets at greater distances and over extended time periods . It has a variable magnification range of 20 – 60 power, an optical clear objective diameter of 72 mm and a focus range of 20m to infinity. Spotter 60 uses a MIL-DOT aiming-point sight, which reduces the difficulty in finding a target, usually experienced with such high magnification devices.
