FORT WAYNE, Ind.--([ BUSINESS WIRE ])--ITT Exelis (NYSE: XLS) is currently demonstrating several of its communications solutions in the U.S. Armyas Network Integration Exercise (NIE) 12.1 at White Sands Missile Range, N.M.
"With the ever-increasing rapid change in communications technology, we welcome this NIE approach as an effective way to bring capable solutions to soldiers on the battlefield"
The NIE is a series of semiannual evaluations designed to integrate and mature the Armyas tactical network so that it can provide soldiers, civilians and mission partners with the information they need in any environment.
ITT Exelisa solutions in the NIE include GNOMAD (the Global Network On-the-Move Active Distribution) and SideHat. GNOMAD provides over the horizon, satellite communications for data and voice while on the move using a low profile broadband antenna and baseband solution which is modem and radio agnostic. SideHat provides an affordable second radio channel solution to more than 350,000 fielded SINCGARS (Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio Systems). SideHat, along with other products under evaluation, is running the Soldier Radio Waveform designed to deliver voice, data, and high-bandwidth networking capabilities to forces at the tactical edge.
Another ITT Exelis solution under evaluation at NIE is the PLI-RBCI (Position Location Information -Radio Based Combat Identification) system. The PLI-RBCI system is operating in more than 340 vehicles at the exercise where it is deployed with the next-generation FBCB2 (Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below) Joint Capabilities Release.
Under the NIE approach, the Army is changing the way it supplies networked systems and capabilities to operational units by using an incremental approach to modernization by bringing technology on board as it becomes available.
aWith the ever-increasing rapid change in communications technology, we welcome this NIE approach as an effective way to bring capable solutions to soldiers on the battlefield,a said Ken Peterman, president of ITT Exelis Communications Systems business area. aThis provides the opportunity for the latest technology to be evaluated for integration into the Armyas network architecture in a fast and effective manner. At the same time, it allows industry to receive quality feedback in a timely manner to refine and improve products.a
Working with this new approach and after listening to feedback from soldiers in operational theaters, ITT Exelis developed the GNOMAD system in less than two years from time of concept to being ready to field. The system is now at NIE where it can be evaluated in a large exercise setting while being integrated into the Armyas larger communications architecture.
About ITT Exelis
ITT Exelis is a diversified, top-tier global aerospace, defense and information solutions company with strong positions in enduring and emerging global markets. Exelis is a leader in networked communications, sensing and surveillance, electronic warfare, navigation, air traffic solutions and information systems with growing positions in cyber security, composite aerostructures, logistics and technical services. The company has a 50-year legacy of innovation and technology expertise, partnering with customers worldwide to deliver affordable, mission-critical products and services for managing global threats, conflicts and complexities. Headquartered in McLean, VA, the company employs about 20,000 people and generated 2010 revenue of nearly $6 billion. [ www.exelisinc.com ]
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