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Posts Tagged ‘Black Diamond Advanced Technology’

Black Diamond Advanced Technology Introduces Next Generation Modular Tactical System

Monday, February 4th, 2013

MTSBlack Diamond Advanced Technology based in Tempe, AZ has introduced its next generation Modular Tactical System (MTS), a wearable multi-mission computer unit that controls peripherals on a central display. The new unit has double the processing speed and is four times faster displaying 3D operational graphics that its predecessor.

The MTS is primarily used by US and Allied SOF for a variety of missions including precision targeting, C4ISR, SA, EOD and UAS/UGV control. The MTS has been fielded in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) since 2010 as a TRL-9 solution.

“The TMC Dual-Core improvements are being offered to help future-proof the MTS kit for our customers,” said Norman Lange, director of product development at Black Diamond.

The MTS Tactical Mission Controller (TMC), which is the heart of the MTS kit and houses a computer, power management system and embedded radio interface electronics, now employs a dual-core Intel processor. The TMC Dual-Core provides a more than two times faster processor and more than four times faster 3D graphics engine—all for the same size and weight while maintaining backward compatibility with fielded MTS accessories and cables. The dual-core processor also provides the ability for simultaneous dual-video output and support for new radios, as well as other feature improvements. The MOLLE-compatible TMC is worn on the back of the tactical vest or can be configured in a pack or carry-bag.

www.bdatech.com

Black Diamond Advanced Technology Delivers MTS to ANG and AFRC

Monday, October 15th, 2012

Earlier this year the US Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) selected the Black Diamond Advanced Technology Modular Tactical System (MTS) as their next-generation Operator Control System (OCS). Used by Special Operations Forces and Joint Terminal Attack Controllers, the Battlefield Air Operations (BAO) OCS is a wearable solution, incorporating a tactical vest with power management and a rugged computing device, designed for dismounted Close Air Support operations and communications control.

Bow, they have completed delivery of 92 MTS kits to several units within the United States Air National Guard (ANG) and Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC). Additionally, Black Diamond is now training end-users on the proper operation and employment of the MTS.

The MTS units will be used by Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) personnel within select ANG Air Support Operations Squadrons (ASOS), and Guardian Angel Combat Rescue Officer Team Commanders (CROTCs) and Pararescue Team Leaders (PJTLs) within the 10th AFRC.

TACP personnel within 13 different ANG ASOS elements make up an elite combat force whose mission is to provide airspace deconfliction and close air support for ground troops. TACPs will receive training on using the MTS in a dismounted role to digitally aid their mission of precision terminal attack guidance including targeting, communications management, and other command and control functions.

The 10th Air Force houses the Combat Air Forces components of AFRC. CROTCs and PJTLs at a number of these installations will receive equipment and training from Black Diamond Advanced Technology, enabling them to aid their vital personnel recovery mission and provide emergency medical care and evacuation in combat and humanitarian operations.

Black Diamond Advanced Technology specializes in wearable computer and communications systems that treat the warfighter as a system, allowing foot-mobile operation while carrying less weight and providing unobstructed access to ammunition, hydration and other mission-critical equipment. The MTS is primarily used by SOF personnel for a variety of missions including Precision Targeting, C4ISR, SA, EOD and UAS/UGV control. MTS has been fielded in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) since 2010.

The MTS will be on display at the ANG/AFRC Weapons and Tactics (WEPTAC) Conference in Tucson, AZ, Oct 22-23. Units who are not part of this fielding can source MTS through www.ADSinc.com.

www.bdatech.com

Black Diamond Wearable Modular Tactical System Chosen by USAF for Dismounted Close Air Support

Monday, July 9th, 2012

Under a Firm Fixed-Price Contract the US Air Force has chosen the Black Diamond Advanced Technology‘s Modular Tactical System (MTS) as their next-generation US Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) Operator Control System (OCS). Used by Special Operations Forces and Joint Terminal Attack Controllers, the Battlefield Air Operations (BAO) OCS is a wearable solution, incorporating a tactical vest with power management and a rugged computing device, designed for dismounted Close Air Support operations and communications control.

A component of the BAO kit, the MTS is a wearable, combat-enabled tactical communications tool providing situational awareness and blue force tracking. It also functions as a precision strike tool that facilitates control of multiple mission-critical peripherals on a central display, eliminating battery and equipment redundancies and lightening the load on the operator.

With the MTS at the core, the overall solution reduces the time required for the JTAC to prosecute a target and increases accuracy and efficiency by allowing the operator to maximize the existing radio and air-asset capabilities during dismounted operations.

I was able to try out a version of the MTS last year. It is an impressive system that is integrated directly into an armor carrier. What really impressed me was that it is right there in front of you and you don’t have to pack up a laptop to move. You can quickly transition back and forth between the screen and your surroundings to maintain situational awareness.

You can run it through the paces as well at this week’s Warrior Expo East. Additionally, ADS Inc offers the MTS for units and organizations that require on the move computing but who are not part of this program of record.

Warrior Expo EAST
July 12 1030 – 1600 EDT
July 13 1030 – 1500 EDT
Virginia Beach Convention Ctr
Virginia Beach, VA

ADS to Distribute Black Diamond Advanced Technology’s Modular Tactical System

Friday, July 1st, 2011

We just found out that ADS will now be distributing Black Diamond Advanced Technology’s Modular Tactical System (MTS).

We wrote about the MTS last month and think it is a fantastic offering. By integrating the computer system directly into your PPE, transition your attention from computer to real world is instantaneous. No more storing fragile fear before you can move out. In the sample pictured above, the MTS is integrated into a BAE RBAV used by SOCOM. The ADS partnership may very well result in additional integrations for this technology. Make sure you check out our previous article on the MTS if you are unfamiliar with it.

For those attending the Warrior Expo-East, Thursday, July 14 and Friday, July 15 in Virginia Beach, VA, you can see a demonstration of the MTS in booth #187.

www.bdatech.com

Black Diamond Introduces New Tactical Computer System

Tuesday, May 31st, 2011

Black Diamond Advanced Technology recently introduced its Modular Tactical System (MTS), a lightweight, wearable and rugged computer system that is integrated into the user’s uniform and equipment, and optimized for dismounted C4ISR. What’s more, it’s available now as a Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) product.

On of the major issues with “tactical computers” is that they become attention hogs. It’s kind of like texting while driving. You end up taking your head out of the fight in order to deal with the computer. Black Diamond recognized this and took steps to mitigate the effect. The equipment is integrated directly into your equipment. This means you don’t have to take time to put a computer away and can instantly transition from learning of a threat to dealing with it. The system is well suited for Command and Control use by small unit leaders, targeting (JTACs, TACPs and Forward Observers), combat medics, explosive ordnance disposal as well as combat weather and military intelligence applications.

Additionally, this modular approach of deconstructing the computer and communications system to fully integrate it into the uniform and common equipment means it is lighter than other models. It can be integrated into most plate carriers with a new cummerbund for cable management. Additionally, the entire system can be integrated into a low profile pack or bag for a more self contained operational capability.

The heart of the MTS is the Tactical Mission Controller (TMC), a low-profile processing platform, peripheral controller and power manager which is carried on the rear of the plate carrier. Cables are routed through an interchangeable cummerbund that integrates with body armor. A flip-down front pocket opens quickly for access to the removable 6.5-inch, sunlight-viewable, night vision goggle (NVG)-compatible Universal Tactical Display (UTD). A Tactical HUB for interfacing with mission-specific peripherals like rangefinders is routed along the cummerbund to provide easy, non-intrusive access to I/O ports. Power is sourced from a wide range of existing military batteries already carried by the Soldier.

“Black Diamond’s goal was to approach the wearable computer solution as a complete system, providing true on-the-move performance and situational awareness for a variety of applications,” said Justin Dyster, Black Diamond’s vice president of engineering. “By offering the MTS as a COTS system, we’re eliminating the cost and developmental delay for applications that may be too small for a full-blown development program and are too complex to employ basic soldier system computers.”

For those of you concerned about security, Black Diamond has thought about that as well. It features a Trusted Platform Module, can be zerorized and can detect tampering. Additionally, the UTD produces no detectable light beyond 10 meters when used in NVG mode.

Finally, if you have been using a battlefield computing device you will be at home with MTS. It is a Windows or Linux-based system and is available loaded with the applications you already use: FBCB2 JCR-V, TACP CASS, BAO Suite, StrikeLink, Falcon View, PSS-SOF as well as any other specialized applications pending verification of compatibility with the standard load. Additionally, MTS features a couple of software applications like LaunchPad that, when used with the UTD remind you of using a smart phone. You tap an icon and the application launches. No scrolling through a bunch of menus to find what you are looking for. When used in conjunction with AppConfig, your applications are launched, sized and placed exactly where you want them on the screen. There is also software on the system to control radios as well as the Coastal Defense MVR-IV from the UTD. Finally, Black Diamond has included a Built In Test every time the system powers up to verify integrity.

All in all, a lot of thought has been into the MTS and it is obvious Black Diamond has taken input from users and applied it. To learn more visit www.bdatech.com.