Beyond line-of-sight terminal program completes software qualification and systems integration testing

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., 30 Jan. 2013. Boeing [NYSE: BA] recently completed software qualification testing and systems integration testing on the U.S. Air Force Family of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminal (FAB-T) development program. The FAB-T program is meant to provide protected wideband satellite communications among ground and airborne terminals for the command and control of U.S. nuclear forces.

In addition to the testing, Boeing has also demonstrated FAB-T's integration with the advanced extremely high frequency (AEHF) and Milstar mission control subsystem, which commands both satellite constellations. This test, which was conducted in Boeing's factory, validated FAB-T's ability to control strategic satellite communications payloads on orbit. The AEHF and Milstar satellite constellations will relay FAB-T communications once FAB-T is operational.

The tests show that the FAB-T design meets the program's functional and performance requirements. Boeing has also demonstrated AEHF spacecraft control, which is critical to FAB-T's mission. FAB-T will enable the Air Force to perform all satellite control functions, including setting up networks, establishing user traffic priorities, and scheduling satellite beams.

During testing, FAB-T also transmitted data using both low-data-rate and extended-data-rate (XDR) communications protocols. The system's advanced XDR capability offers Internet-like functionality and improved speed compared with earlier systems and software.

In April 2012, Boeing and the Air Force agreed on a set of additional FAB-T capabilities, including Presidential and National voice conferencing, to be developed under Boeing's firm fixed-price contract. The Boeing team has implemented those capabilities and expects to enter functional qualification testing early this year.