EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., 12 April 2006. The U.S. Air Force, in conjunction with BAE Systems and SRA International, has flown the Flexible Access Secure Transfer (FAST) Internet Protocol waveform in demonstration flights at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.
The flights were performed with an F-15, a Beechcraft King Air, and two ground stationsm, and they demonstrated the ability to add Internet Protocol connectivity to the Multifunction Information Distribution Systems (MIDS) Fighter Data Link.
The modifications enabled the terminals to simultaneously transmit and receive Link 16 and FAST waveform functions. FAST supports missions that require free flow of data without pre-mission planning.
"This brings an increase in communications capability to friendly forces on and above the battlefield, improving situational awareness and getting the right information to the right place at the right time to slice through the fog of battle," says Steve DiNome, BAE Systems' program manager for FAST. "With further development, there is potential for the FAST waveform to enhance battlefield communications and bring our soldiers, sailors, and airmen safely home."
BAE Systems is under contract with the Air Force to develop and demonstrate the FAST concept, which improves tactical communications and adds mobile ad hoc networking on existing Link 16 Terminals while waiting for future technologies.
