Software-based system to improve Marine communications

A General Dynamics unit will enhance capabilities of Marine Corps combat operations centers by installing a new software-based system to improve information sharing and speed of network communications under a $21 million contract modification.

General Dynamics C4 Systems, of Scottsdale, Ariz., will upgrade electronic systems that are essential to combat operations centers so that they provide enhanced situational awareness and information sharing, company officials said. The new system also is designed to improve network connectivity in tactical settings and through the Global Information Grid, the officials said.

The new system, known as Model G, will include such mainstay features of Internet communications as electronic chat, e-mail, and voice-over-IP communications. Other changes include a migration from hardware-based approach for systems and applications to a software-based approach that follows the service-oriented architecture framework embodied in the DOD’s Net-Enabled Command Capability.

The initiative marks the transition of the Marine Corps' combat operations centers from a hardware-based system to a software-based system capable of accommodating rapid integration of new technologies as they are available, said Manny Mora, vice president for Battle Management Systems at General Dynamics C4 Systems.

The modification was awarded through a 2002 task order under which the contractor is responsible for design, development and testing of electronic systems at the centers.

The combat operations centers support operations at various levels of command, from the squadron level up to the brigade level.