Raytheon networked an array of combat systems during a U.S. Army experimental force exercise to evaluate existing and emerging capabilities for improved situational awareness and targeting efficiency.

At the Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiment, Raytheon linked a number of combat sensors and weapons systems for improved lethality. The tactical network included a 3rd-generation electro-optical Mast Mounted System, the Long Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System, an Improved Target Acquisition System, and the Javelin Command Launch Unit.

"By networking these systems, Raytheon significantly reduced target acquisition and engagement timelines through slew-to-cue target handoffs and automated target reports," said Glynn Raymer, vice president, Raytheon Network Centric Systems Combat Systems. "We increased situational awareness through transmission of streaming sensor video and imagery that supports targeting and battle damage assessments.

"This is the third year we brought networked lethality solutions to AEWE for soldiers to experience firsthand, and through our participation, Raytheon has progressively enhanced these critical force modernization capabilities," added Raymer. "These ready and near-ready netted systems reduce time-to-target, improve accuracy and help save warfighter lives."

Raytheon also served as the lead integrator for AEWE technologies. That effort included using its MAINGATE mobile ad-hoc communications system as a network backbone for the experiment.

While the Army is still analyzing field test data, emerging results indicate that Raytheon's lead technology integration and netted combat systems yielded positive performance.