Abstract
Developing Net-Centric Technologies Proves Challenging
Developing net-centric technologies and warfare systems that are reliable, secure, accessible, and fast is proving to be quite a challenge. Manufacturers of airborne command and control systems must also satisfy the militarys demand that systems be secure to defend against offensive information systems which are cheap relative to the cost of developing, maintaining, and using advanced military systems. Information attacks include creating false data, inserting malicious, logic-based weapons in the information systems or deploying electronic pulse weapons. Market participants need to offer products that enable easy and convenient networking of weapons systems in a secure integrated, and wireless information Web.
This Frost & Sullivan research covers the North American airborne command and control market by providing revenue forecasts and analysis associated with the various platforms used by the Armed Forces of the United States and Canada. Revenue data for program funding has been derived from the fiscal year 2006 Department of Defense (DoD) budgets and other sources, such as company annual reports and primary research. The analysis also identifies industry challenges, key market drivers and restraints, trends, and competitive issues. It offers strategic recommendations that are likely to enable companies to benefit from the changing markets conditions and obtain maximum return on investment.
Transformation to a Network-Centric Warfare Doctrine
The military is undergoing a rapid transformation to benefit from advanced information networking technology and has also taken initiatives to improve the availability and management of information. Effective command and control systems are now allowing combat units to avoid dependence on slow and unreliable voice communication. Legacy airborne platforms are being upgraded and new ones built to exploit the power offered through integrated battle management computing and communications. The DoD is incorporating new systems to process multidimensional information into advanced situational pictures that are shared and relayed up and down the chain of command.
"In order to build the infrastructure capable of handling the increasing volume of information available to war fighters, every platform must be interoperable with future systems and at the same time ensure compatibility with legacy systems," says the analyst of this research service. "These requirements pose a significant challenge while also providing a huge opportunity for companies to gain market share."
Weapons Systems Integration Crucial to Success
Companies should consider employing a strong weapons system integration (WSI) team concept to develop modern airborne C2 systems. Weapons systems integrators provide smaller companies without requisite capital to enter the lucrative defense industry. Smaller niche companies also provide Tier 1 participants with innovative products based on robust system engineering practices, cutting edge architecture, and modeling and simulation (M&S). "The WSI must develop rigid standards and an environment that fosters third-party involvement and rapid integration of commercial off-the-shelf and Government off-the-shelf services," explains the analyst. In addition, the WSI should provide simulation and effects-based decision making to the customer early on in the development cycle in order to establish priorities based on realistic goals. | 
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