Boeing [BA] has proven the capability of its Directional Network System (DNW), the next generation of 100 megabytes-per-second plus mesh networking, during the U.S. Fleet Forces Command’s Trident Warrior 2010, the company reported.
DNW was the core system used in the operational tests conducted June 14 to 16 by Boeing and the Navy, the company said.
According to Boeing, “the experiment demonstrated the ability to sustain network connectivity without satellite communications by using an airborne mesh network. This type of network provides multiple communications links between several platforms at more than 100 megabytes per second, ensuring reliable routing between any two users.”
For the tests, DNW terminals were installed aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD-6) off the coast of San Diego; at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton; and at Point Loma in San Diego to simulate another ship; and inside a helicopter flying along the coastline. The tests demonstrated communications capabilities among all the terminals, Boeing added.
“Boeing met its goal of passing data between ships, aircraft and shore sites through a network, ensuring connectivity with one another and with intelligence processing centers during critical warfighting operations,” Alex Lopez, vice president of Boeing Advanced Network & Space Systems (AN&SS), said. “This tool keeps information flowing in vital situations, increasing warfighters’ safety.”
The experiment was part of the larger Range of Warfare C2 operations being conducted by the Navy’s PMW/A-170, Commercial Broadband Satellite Program and Boeing’s AN&SS.