MCLEAN, Va., 17 Nov. 2005. Australian Aerospace, a Eurocopter subsidiary, has selected Innovative Concepts' IDM V304 as the tactical data link solution for the MRH90 helicopters to be delivered to the Australian Defense Forces (ADF) as part of the Australian AIR9000 Program.
In August 2004, the Australian defense ministry announced its decision to acquire 12 NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters from Australian Aerospace. This version of the helicopter, re-designated the MRH90, varies from previous NH90 models in its advanced communications suite and tactical data link capabilities. The integration of the IDM V304 into the MRH90 will pave the way for the deployment of interoperable data communications for the ADF providing them with the capacity to survive, adapt, fight and win against a diverse range of threats. This implementation will also serve other current and future NH90 users desiring to enhance their aircraft with NATO interoperable data links.
The ADF is designing their Network Centric Warfare capabilities around the Variable Message Format (VMF) Message Set designated as MIL-STD-6017 and the MIL-STD-188-220 Combat Net Radio protocol. The ADF desires full interoperability with the U.S. Army Aviation platforms. This made IDM Technology the logical choice, since the IDM V304 provides the same robust data communications for all U.S. Army Aviation platforms, including the: AH-64D Apache, OH-58 Kiowa Warrior, CH-47 Chinook, and UH-60 Blackhawk. It will provide the MRH90 platform with guaranteed interoperability.
The IDM V304 delivers network centric operations (NCO) capabilities directly to the cockpit. NCO as implemented via IDM Technology, permits rapid, accurate target engagement, efficient fire support synchronization, and a significant reduction in the potential for friendly fire incidents. By adopting digital data transfer, situational awareness is enhanced because friendly unit location information can be automatically updated and displayed to all units.
Innovative Concepts, a wholly owned subsidiary of Herley Industries, Inc., is a communications technology development firm specializing in the research, design, development, production and support of wireless data communications products and services for the defense and intelligence communities. Our expertise includes the IDM Technology product line, systems engineering, and software and hardware development. For more information, see www.innocon.com.
Herley Industries, Inc. is a leader in the design, development and manufacture of microwave technology solutions for the defense, aerospace and medical industries worldwide. Based in Lancaster, Pa., Herley has nine locations and over a thousand employees worldwide. For more information, see www.herley.com.
