U.S. Navy Network Warfare Command approves General Dynamics Common Network Interface to deliver real-time tactical picture, improve tactical awareness

Posted by Courtney E. Howard

FAIRFAX, Va., 13 Aug. 2011. The U.S. Navy's Network Warfare Command has approved the General Dynamics Common Network Interface (CNI) Flight 0+ systemp--by General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD)--for use on the IT for the 21st Century (IT-21) network. CNI employs an open architecture and a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) processor and software suite to integrate multiple-source data into a real-time tactical picture. Watch officers can view and manipulate Link 16 tactical data, as well as access various tools and software applications, using one CNI display rather than several standalone, stove-piped systems.

General Dynamics engineers have developed CNI in a series of "flights," each flight insert adding tactical capability without dismantling and reinstalling an entire system. CNI Flight 0+ is currently installed on USS Kearsarge and USS Bataan. Upgraded installations are also planned for USS Boxer, USS Bonhomme Richard, and USS Essex.

CNI is now approved for the final certification of the CNI Flight 0+ system with an authority to operate (ATO), with no restrictions on the operations or length of operations.