CONECT
Abstract
CONECT Starting in FY13, the CONECT program will be restructured to replace the current Multi-Function Displays (MFD’s) located at each of the crew stations, make the temporary Evolutionary Data Link (EDL) modification permanent, and demod of the CONECT test aircraft as required. The current CONECT development program will be completed as intended. The B-52 Combat Network Communications Technology (CONECT) acquisition program supports nuclear and conventional operations by upgrading the B-52 fleet with tactical datalink and voice communications capabilities along with improved threat and situational awareness to support participation in network centric operations. The CONECT upgrade includes new multi-functional color displays (MFCDs) and a digital interphone system, which will survive and function through the nuclear environment to enhance crew interaction and situational awareness. To enable net centric operations, the CONECT upgrade integrates: on-board client/server architecture supporting distributed processing with independent control functions; UHF Beyond Line-Of-Sight (BLOS) Joint Range Extension (JRE) capability via ARC-210 Warrior radio to exchange J-Series messaging within theater; Intelligence Broadcast Receiver (IBR); limited Internet Protocol (IP)-based UHF BLOS link supporting e-mail and file transfers; and Improved Data Modem (IDM)-based digital Variable Message Format (VMF) datalink to significantly enhance close air support (CAS) missions. This integrated suite will provide the B-52 fleet with a machine-to-machine data transfer capability supporting aircraft re-tasking and re-targeting of Conventional Air Launched Cruise Missile (CALCM), Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile/JASSM-Extended Range (JASSM/JASSM-ER), and other J-series weapons across the range of B-52 military operations and missions. As the remaining requirement of the CONECT program restructure, the Multi-Function Display (MFD) Replacement will develop wire-harnesses and installation tray configurations for the MFDs in each of the 76 B-52 aircraft. The existing legacy displays at each crew station will be removed and replaced with stock listed MFDs. This effort will replace the current MFDs due to long standing obsolescence issues. This configuration WILL NOT provide additional capability beyond what is currently available, but will retain growth potential for future upgrades. Evolutionary Data Link (EDL) was intended a bridge program to provide a secure voice/datalink capability between ground fighting personnel and the B-52 weapon system, providing situational awareness of where friendly forces are in relation to enemy forces during targeting efforts while using precision guided weapons in combat. Originally fielded as a T1 Modification, the EDL 3.1 program will be finalized as a permanent modification, which entails procurement of sufficient Group B kits to modify the remainder of the fleet, along with procurement of spares and a long-term maintenance strategy with sufficient cover through the end of the aircraft's life cycle. Additional full-up kits will also be required to modify aircrew and ground maintenance trainers. Technical orders, operational procedure directives, and drawings will need to be generated from existing temporary documents. No additional certification testing (DT/OT) is anticipated, as at the end of EDL 3.1 fielding the program office will consider this a fielded, operational system. This program is in Budget Activity 7, Operational System Development because this budget activity includes development efforts to upgrade systems that have been fielded or have received approval for full rate production and anticipate production funding in the current or subsequent fiscal year.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2013
- Source ID
- 675050_0101113F_7_3600_PB_2013
Related Documents
- Root: B-52 SQUADRONS
- Child Accomplishment: CONECT