Upgrading Avionics, Weapons Systems
Northrop Grumman has started work on an F/A-22 modernization
program that will add capabilities to the aircraft's
communications, navigation and identification (CNI) system to
enhance network-centric operations for the next-generation,
air-dominance fighter weapon system.
The CNI avionics are being developed by the Radio Systems
business of Northrop Grumman's Space Technology sector, under
contract to Lockheed Martin. When fully developed, the system will
enable numerous critical CNI functions for the F/A-22.
A key concept in the US Department of Defense's vision for the
future is network-centric warfare, which links sensors,
communications systems and weapon systems in an interconnected grid
that allows for seamless information flow to warfighters, decision
makers and support personnel.
To support this vision, Northrop Grumman's F/A-22 modernization
program will ensure that the CNI architecture is compliant with the
requirements of the Joint Tactical Radio System program. Northrop
Grumman will also add Link-16 capability to the CNI system. Link-16
is a tactical data link that provides greater situational awareness
through the jam-resistant transfer of voice and data between battle
participants.
"The F/A-22's expanding information capabilities will increase
the pilot's ability to engage targets with unmatched battlespace
awareness," said Jim Byloff, F/A-22 program director, Radio
Systems, Northrop Grumman Space Technology. "Our modernization
program will not only reduce the cost of the F/A-22's CNI system,
it improves interoperability and increases sharing of unique
information from the best sensors in the fleet."
Northrop Grumman's CNI system utilizes sophisticated
software-defined radio technology to simultaneously support
numerous capabilities such as various voice and data
communications, automatic acquisition of fly-to points and
friend-or-foe identification. The system can also dynamically
reconfigure these functions to support priorities defined by
missions. Using software-defined radio technology, Northrop
Grumman's CNI system is a fraction of the size and weight of the
single-function radios previously required to implement the same
functions. This "smart-box" approach allows for increased
performance, quicker deployment, higher availability, enhanced
scalability and lower lifecycle cost.
The F/A-22 Raptor is slated to reach initial operational
capability in December 2005 at Langley Air Force Base, VA. The
F/A-22's balanced design of stealth, super cruise speed,
supportability and super agility, along with its advanced
integrated avionics, will enable combat commanders to change the
way future wars are fought -- making them shorter, while saving
American and allied lives.