Fully networked, high-speed communications are one-step closer for today's soldiers. As lead for the Warfighter Information Network - Tactical (WIN-T) Increment 3 Transmission Subsystem, Lockheed Martin has successfully completed an In Process Review(IPR) for the critical design of the next phase of the Increment 3 Transmission Subsystem.

Increment 3 continues development of the components needed to meet the full range of network capacity, security, and full on-the-move capabilities for the Army's modular force. The transmission subsystem provides the foundation for the network's dynamic capability to transfer data over a highly dispersed, noncontiguous area.

"This milestone was the culmination of more than five years of development for this subsystem," said Jim Quinn, vice president with Lockheed Martin's Information Systems and Global Solutions-Defense.

"This review allows us to move into the corresponding implementation and test phases of the program so warfighters can soon realize the substantial advantages WIN-T brings to the battlefield."

This review assessed design maturity of all hardware, software, and firmware elements of the Transmission Subsystem, which includes advanced components for both satellite and terrestrial communications at-the-halt and on-the-move (multi-channel radios, antennas, and communications waveforms).

With the completion of this IPR the team moves into the build and test phase for the Transmission Subsystem components that form the tactical communications network. General Dynamics C4 Systems is the prime systems integrator for WIN-T whose team members include Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Harris Corporation, L-3 Communications, Cisco Systems and Juniper Networks.

The WIN-T program consists of four increments. Increment 1 is the Army's enterprise network for deployed forces. Increment 2 enables initial mobile networking for divisions, brigade combat teams, battalions and companies.

Increment 3 connects a three-tiered architecture; traditional line-of-sight, airborne and satellites to provide a full suite of mobile networking capabilities. Increment 4 is envisioned to add protected satellite transmission capabilities for on-the-move and at-the-halt operations.