Communication System Applications for Shipboard Data Collection and Networking

Abstract

The assessment of weapons and combat system performance requires the collection and networking of data from shipboard and land based locations. New programs being introduced and tested, such as the Cooperative Engagement Capability, Theater Ballistic Missile Defense, and All Service Combat Identification Evaluation Team, generate gigabytes of data which must be reduced, transferred, and analyzed. Test conductors, headquarters personnel, and military commanders require analysis results in near real time to evaluate system performance during a test or exercise. This paper will discuss communication system applications for shipboard data collection and networking to collect, reduce, and transfer the large amounts of data generated during current and planned Navy and Joint exercises. Examples of using 56 Kbit/Second International Maritime Satellite, range based line-of-sight networking, and integrated workstation applications will be addressed and lessons learned shared from actual installation and use.