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Valiant Shield Military Exercise Brings Cloud Networking to the Pacific

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

Company’s mobile ad hoc network (MANET) enabled geographically dispersed U.S. military commanders to move small, agile operational centers across the INDOPACOM region while maintaining contact with aircraft, ships, and ground forces during exercise.

Persistent Systems, LLC (“Persistent”), a leader in mobile ad hoc networking, announced today that its communications solutions successfully supported Valiant Shield, a biennial joint Field Training Exercise conducted by the U.S. military in Guam and across the INDOPACOM Area of Responsibility (AOR).

During the 11-day exercise, Persistent Systems Wave Relay® MANET and Cloud Relay™ networking capabilities enabled U.S. commanders operating from forward-deployed and fixed operations centers to test the Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept through the MANET-Cloud High Mobility Radio (MCHMR) as well as conduct a run-through of the Joint Fires Network, a prototype battle management system.

“U.S. forces in the INDOPACOM AOR are under constant alert from threats marshaled by near-peer powers in the region,” said Adrien Robenhymer, Persistent’s VP of Business Development, Air Force and Intelligent Community, “The U.S. must be prepared to counter by operating in a nimble, distributed fashion with a swift kill chain.”

Utilizing MCHMR’s MPU5-based MANET and cloud services facilitated by Persistent’s Cloud Relay™ network, Valiant Shield commanders at both fixed and deployable operations centers, as well as individual units at the edge, were able to track bombers and fighter jets in the air, personnel on the ground, and ships at sea.

“During the exercise, airmen and Marines were using our MANET technology to demonstrate the viability of the ACE concept,” Robenhymer said. “Commanders were rapidly establishing operations in Hawaii, Guam, and the First Island Chain, all while maintaining communication and tracking of their forces. We also showcased our ability to reduce the Joint Fires Network response time from minutes to seconds.”

Persistent’s involvement with Valiant Shield, say company officials, is yet another example of how it is leading the way in delivering a Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) capability today.

“The network is the key to enabling JADC2,” said Robenhymer. “By delivering a rapidly deployable, scalable network providing both connectivity at the tactical edge and strategic reach back; decision-makers are finally united with the sensors and effectors. MCHMR has turned the JADC2 vision into a reality, and we just demonstrated it across the Pacific.”

www.persistentsystems.com

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UVision Inc. and Mistral Inc. Selects Silvus StreamCaster SC4400 to Provide Secure C2 and Communications for HERO-120SF in $73.5 Million U.S. SOCOM Loitering Munitions Contract

Monday, August 5th, 2024

Los Angeles, California (July 31, 2024) – Silvus Technologies, Inc. (“Silvus”), a global leader in advanced wireless networking communication systems, today announced that UVisionUSA, and Mistral Inc., have selected Silvus’ StreamCaster SC4400 MANET radios to power C2 and communications for the HERO-120SF. This selection is a critical component of UVisionUSA and Mistral Inc. recent $73.5 million contract award from the United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) for loitering munitions.

Chosen for their unmatched range, scalability, data throughput, and EW resilience, Silvus StreamCaster SC4400 MANET radio delivers up to 20W output power (80W effective power thanks to TX Eigen Beamforming) and up to 100 Mbps data throughput.

All StreamCaster SC4400 radios acquired for the HERO-120SF include Silvus’ proprietary Mobile Networked MIMO (MN-MIMO) waveform that creates a self-organizing mesh network designed to operate across multiple spectrum bands at high data rates. Together with Silvus’ Spectrum Dominance expansive suite of Low Probability of Intercept/Low Probability of Detection (LPI/LPD) and Anti-Jamming resiliency capabilities, Silvus is providing HERO-120SF operators with secure and protected communications without comprising performance. Designed to enable StreamCaster MANET radios to thrive in congested and contested environments, Spectrum Dominance empowers operators with tactical communications solutions to achieve mission objectives, even under electronic attack.

“The modern battlefield demands advanced loitering munitions with long-range, mobile, and non-line-of-sight wireless communications technology capable of handling high-bandwidth HD video and telemetry data in contested environments. Silvus’ StreamCaster MANET radios, MN-MIMO waveform technology and Spectrum Dominance capabilities are engineered to meet these challenges,” said Jimi Henderson, Vice President of Sales for Silvus Technologies. “Our partnership with UVision and Mistral underscores our commitment to pushing the envelope of what’s technically possible to advance HERO-120SF precision strike capabilities for USSOCOM.”

“Silvus has been instrumental in delivering the essential C2 and protected communications capabilities that helped secure UVisionUSA and Mistral’s significant contract with the U.S. Special Operations Command,” said Dr. Ran Gozali, Chairman of the Board of Directors for UVision USA. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration to provide advanced loitering munition systems with cutting-edge MANET radio communications technologies to protect U.S. national security.”

About the HERO-120SF

The HERO-120SF Loitering Munition System is a state-of-the-art, mid-range, anti-tank system designed specifically for heavy strikes against armored targets, including tanks, vehicles, and other hard targets on the modern battlefield. With its ability to cause minimal collateral damage and equipped with a range of multi-purpose warheads, the HERO-120SF provides operational users with an unparalleled effective engagement solution. Tailored for Special Forces operations, the HERO-120SF includes enhancements such as improved payload capacity, advanced guidance systems, and increased flexibility for deployment from various platforms.

Learn more about the StreamCaster family of MANET radios on the Silvus website and follow Silvus on LinkedIn. Learn more about the UVision HERO family of Loitering Munitions on the UVision website.

Posted in Comms, Contracts, Press Release | Comments Off on UVision Inc. and Mistral Inc. Selects Silvus StreamCaster SC4400 to Provide Secure C2 and Communications for HERO-120SF in $73.5 Million U.S. SOCOM Loitering Munitions Contract

Vitali Klitschko Receives Quantum Systems Donation of 100 Trinity Drones to Ukraine

Friday, August 2nd, 2024

The Mayor of Kyiv took possession of a donation of 100 mapping drones by German manufacturer Quantum Systems. The equipment will be used for the reconstruction and recovery of Ukraine and is configured for various disaster relief, damage assessment and surveying missions.

Kyiv, Ukraine – July 31, 2024 – Quantum Systems, Europe’s leading innovator in dual-use drone-robotics offering state-of-the-art multi-sensor technology for both government and commercial clients, announces the donation of 100 mapping drones to the Mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko.

“Border guards will use the equipment to organize control of Ukraine’s borders and respond to various challenges. As well as to survey and map the infrastructure. SSTLC instructors will train border service personnel after the first batch is delivered and will be responsible for all support, training and logistics activities.”

– Vitali Klitschko, Mayor of Kyiv

The donation was promised by Quantum Systems CEO and founder, Florian Seibel and made possible by the German charitable foundation, #WeAreAllUkrainians gemeinnützige GmbH, who is forwarding the Trinity drones to the State Border Guard Services of Ukraine.

“We will not only send our Trinity drones but true to our motto “deliver, support, integrate”, we will support their operation with repair and maintenance at our facilities in country and we will train the operators of the Ukraine Border Guard. We are committed to Ukraine in its struggle for independency and beyond.”

-Sven Kruck, MD of Quantum Systems

The Quantum Systems Trinity drones are equipped with a 61 Megapixel Sony RGB camera and used for mapping and surveying. They will aid Ukraine in environmental damage assessment and battle damage assessment as well as in surveying and mapping critical infrastructure and terrain. The drones can provide crucial data and information to support during reconstruction and recovery as well as for humanitarian relief.

The first shipment delivered on July 30th contains 28 Trinity drones. The remaining deliveries are expected to be concluded by the end of the year. As an extension of the donation, Quantum Systems LLC in Ukraine will support these systems in the field and will provide repair and maintenance services. Quantum Systems Service, Support, Training & Logistics Center (SSTLC) will train operators of the State Border Guard Services of Ukraine.

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Orbit and Viasat To Collaborate On Next-Generation Airborne Satellite Communication Systems

Thursday, August 1st, 2024

Revolutionary Multi-Purpose Terminal Will Seamlessly Connect Government Customers Across Viasat’sGlobal Satellite Networks

July 31, 2024 – Orbit Communication Systems Ltd., a leading provider of airborne communication solutions, announced today a milestone collaboration with Viasat Inc., a global leader in satellite communications, for the engineering and supply of advanced satellite communication (SATCOM) Multi-Purpose Terminals (MPT) for airborne platforms. This work is expected to significantly enhance performance and access for Viasat customers across diverse satellite networks, simplifying connectivity management.

When available, Orbit will introduce next-generation airborne SATCOM systems that will seamlessly integrate across Viasat’sglobal Ka-band networks, which include the next-generation high-capacity ViaSat-3 network and the advanced Global Xpress (GX) network. These systems are designed to work with military Ka-band HCX steerable beams and are defined as WGS readyterminals. The innovative MPT systems consolidate network capabilities, allowing seamless switching for users.

The agreement includes delivery of 12″ / 30cm and 18″ / 45cm airborne terminals for military and government use, utilizing dual polarization and supporting the entire 3.5 GHz of Ka-band frequencies for high-speed data transmission and robust connectivity in dynamic environments.

These systems are designed to support multiple networks, including various types of Viasat satellites. This flexibility will help increase resilient connectivity for customers with a simple, multi-network terminal capability that supports military operational needs.

Daniel Eschar, CEO of Orbit Communication Systems, stated, “We are immensely proud to be working with Viasat to supply the next generation of satellite communication systems, which will pave the way for connectivity with cutting-edge satellites boasting exceptional performance. This marks a significant achievement for our collaboration with Viasat, a major leader in the satellite services sector, serving military, government, and commercialclients. These systems will redefine airborne communication, ensuring seamless integration with advanced satellites.”

Steve Gizinski, Chief Technology Officer of Viasat Government, added, “We’re excited by Orbit’s technological capabilities and their continued collaboration in developing flexible terminals to support government needs. The terminals delivered through this effort will allow customers to access Viasat’s expanded services and support demands for reliable and resilient connectivity worldwide.”

About MPT – Multi Purpose Terminal

The Multi-Purpose Terminals (MPT) terminals support the ‘everywhere, all-the-time’ coverage requirements of military airborne users. They also allow government users to roam between commercial Ka-band and Mil-Ka services.

The terminals can be installed on a range of mission aircraft, rotary wing and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). They comply with industry standards, including MIL-STD-188-164C, RTCA DO-160G, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). They are compatible with military satellite systems, making them an ideal choice for government airborne Intelligence, Reconnaissance, and Surveillance (ISR) applications.

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US Army Receives First, Complete IBCS Delivery

Thursday, July 25th, 2024

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Integrated Fires Mission Command Project Office, under Program Executive Office Missiles and Space, received the first complete Integrated Battle Command System delivery as part of the low-rate initial production on April 22, 2024.

Integrated Battle Command System, or IBCS, is the cornerstone of air and missile defense modernization efforts, providing transformational mission command with increased capabilities to the battlefield faster.

“The completion of this first delivery is the result of unparalleled dedication from amazing professionals. It has been a privilege to lead a team with such a high level of skill and commitment,” said Army Col. Chris Hill, IFMC Project Office project manager. “This accomplishment is an excellent example of what we can achieve when our military, industry partners, government civilians and contractors successfully collaborate on our mission.”

The Integrated Air and Missile Defense program was among the first Army efforts to enter the DOD agile software pathway process. Agile software development, coupled with warfighter prioritization and hardware development, has enabled faster adaptation to new capabilities and threats, ensuring increased consistency across all aspects of production. The program is at the forefront of the Army’s renewed vision of digital transformation.

IBCS is comprised of three major end items: the Integrated Collaborative Environment, the Engagement Operation Center and the Integrated Fire Control Network Relay. The ICE is a modular shelter that provides a collaborative environment for battlefield mission command. The EOC is an integrated fire control center that provides the engagement operations function for IBCS. The IFCN Relay performs dual functions, providing the interface for the adapted sensors and weapons and serving as a communications relay to extend battlefield operations distances.

“IBCS is the critical mission command component of our Army’s modernized air and missile defense capabilities. It is the cornerstone of our efforts to integrate future components and qualify the architecture within our annual Integrated Fires Test Campaign,” said Army Brig. Gen. Frank Lozano, Program Executive Officer Missiles and Space. “This delivery is the result of excellent work by the entire team focused on modernizing our air and missile defense systems while getting this equipment to our Soldiers as quickly as possible.”

The IFMC Project Office is helping to modernize the US Army by integration, synchronization and collaboration between all air and missile defense components. Integration efforts leverage legacy and future sensors and shooters, allowing for a single integrated air picture and coordination between fielded assets.

The fusion between existing joint systems and future developmental programs with IBCS increases overall effectiveness, dramatically enhancing the ability to track, identify, engage and defend against diverse threats. These capabilities not only help modernize the Army’s AMD capabilities, but also the capabilities of our allies across the globe who modernize to the new IBCS architecture.

By NATHANIEL PIERCE

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Silvus StreamCaster MANET Radios Added to Blue UAS Framework and Green UAS Cleared Components List

Saturday, July 20th, 2024

Providing Advanced & Secure MANET Radio Capabilities to UAS Developers for use in DoD Applications

· StreamCaster SC4200EP and StreamCaster LITE SL4200 designated by DIU as NDAA compliant and approved for use in conjunction with Blue UAS platforms

· StreamCaster LITE SL4200 is the first MANET radio included in the Green UAS Cleared Components List

· StreamCaster LITE SL4200 added to the Blue UAS Framework as part of AUVSI Green UAS Certification data sharing agreement with DIU

Los Angeles, California (July 18, 2024) – Silvus Technologies, Inc. (“Silvus”), a global leader in advanced wireless networking communication systems, today announced that the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has officially added Silvus’ StreamCaster SC4200EP and StreamCaster LITE SL4200 MANET radios to the Blue UAS Framework. After undergoing the Blue UAS program’s rigorous evaluation, this certification validates their compliance with DoD standards for cybersecurity, supply chain integrity and operational reliability. Inclusion on the Blue UAS Framework further demonstrates the SC4200EP and SL4200 interoperability and NDAA compliancy, designating them as approved for use in conjunction with Blue UAS platforms. This achievement exemplifies Silvus’ commitment to delivering cutting-edge, secure, and reliable C2 and mesh networked communications solutions for unmanned systems.

Additionally, the StreamCaster LITE SL4200 achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first Mobile Ad Hoc Network (MANET) radio to be included in the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Green UAS Cleared Components list. This inclusion not only highlights the advanced performance capabilities of the SL4200 but also reinforces its status as a trusted and secure component for unmanned systems operations.

The addition of the SL4200 to the Blue UAS Framework was facilitated through the AUVSI Green UAS Certification data sharing MOU agreement with DIU. Through partnering with AUVSI, Silvus supports the Green UAS program’s goal of advancing the integration of UAS into defense applications and building a strong and secure drone industrial base.

“The first successful integration of Green UAS certified components onto the Blue UAS Framework through our MOU with DIU is a significant milestone that underscores our commitment to bolstering the commercial drone industry’s alignment with secure drone standards, enhancing both security and innovation,” said Casie Ocaña, Director, Trusted Programs at AUVSI.

StreamCaster SC4200EP is a 2×2 MIMO software-defined radio, delivering best-in-class MANET performance and connectivity at the tactical edge. With up to 10 Watts of output power (20 Watts effective performance, thanks to TX Eigen Beamforming), up to 100 Mbps data throughput and single/dual band frequency options, the SC4200EP delivers high-fidelity video, voice and IP data communications with class-leading range and performance. With multiple form-factor options including handheld, Drop-In Module and OEM module, combined with a low SWaP profile, the SC4200EP is ideal for portable or embedded unmanned applications.

StreamCaster LITE SL4200 is a 2×2 MIMO software-defined radio that provides up to 1 Watt of output power (2 Watts effective performance, thanks to TX Eigen Beamforming), up to 20 Mbps data throughput across a variety of single band frequency options. Available in a ruggedized handheld or OEM module form-factors, its ultra-low profile and flexible interface options make it ideal for integration into unmanned platforms where size, weight and power are key.

At the heart of every StreamCaster MANET radio is Silvus’ proprietary MN-MIMO waveform, that creates a self-forming and adaptive mesh network – capable of linking hundreds of nodes with unmatched range, throughput, EW resiliency and scalability.

“We are thrilled to have our StreamCaster SC4200EP and StreamCaster LITE SL4200 MANET radios join the Blue UAS Framework, and for the SL4200 to be the first MANET radio added to the Green UAS Cleared Components List,” said Jimi Henderson, Vice President of Sales, Silvus Technologies. “Silvus continues to push the boundaries of mesh networking technology for mission critical applications. This achievement is a testament to our dedication in working across the industry to advance the capabilities of unmanned systems through robust, secure, and powerfully connected tactical communications solutions.”

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Blue UAS Framework program provides advanced capabilities to UAS developers and reduces risk for government customers, ensuring that only secure and trusted technologies are used in critical defense operations. For more information visit: www.diu.mil/blue-uas.

AUVSI’s Green UAS certification assesses and verifies that commercial drones and components meet the highest levels of cybersecurity and NDAA supply chain requirements through a security controls assessment and vulnerability and penetration testing. Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Green UAS certification data is shared directly with DIU, facilitating the inclusion of certified drone component to be added to the Blue UAS Framework. For more information visit: www.auvsi.org/green-uas.

Learn more about the StreamCaster family of MANET radios on our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

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The Tech Prepper – How To Set Up A Windows Machine For Off-Grid Computing

Saturday, July 20th, 2024

In one of the most p?oignant posts I have run across in a while, The Tech Prepper has shared a video on how to set up a Windows computer for off-grip computing.

While most of our personal machines weren’t affected by the Crowd Strike/Microsoft trainwreck yesterday, there are myriad conditions that could negatively affect our ability to access and use computing at the edge. His video shows you how to enable that access, regardless of where you are.

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DISCO32 – Gas Mask Adapter Cable

Friday, July 19th, 2024

The GAS MASK ADAPTER (DGMA) represents a breakthrough in tactical communication, designed to facilitate seamless integration between protective masks with Electronic Communications Ports (ECPs) and the operator’s individual headset and push-to-talk system.

This adapter focuses on bypassing the headset’s microphone to utilize the internal microphone of the mask or other ECP-equipped devices, ensuring clear communication without interference.

The DGMA is compatible with a wide range of protective masks, including the C50, M50, FM53, FM54, or any other masks utilizing a 2 pin ECP port for the U-173/U type connection. Additionally, it supports MFF (Military Free Fall) communications-enabled oxygen masks like the MBU-12/P, offering extensive adaptability across different operational scenarios.

disco32.com/products/gas-mask-adapter-dgma

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