The US Air Force (USAF) has awarded Redmond-based Kymeta Corporation a $950 million demonstration and maturation contract to support the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS).
The contract will cover “maturation, demonstration, and proliferation of capability across platforms and domains, leveraging open systems design, modern software, and algorithm development” to enable ABMS technologies, according to the satellite communications company.
“Kymeta is pleased to participate in the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) competitive category for connectivity,” said Rob Weitendorf, vice president of business development at Kymeta.
“Our advanced technology is proven effective for rapid deployment, offers the highest levels of security and encryption, and is essential for mission-critical operations.”
ABMS
ABMS comprises a “new set of technologies, operational requirements and warfighter integration efforts” that help battle commanders and soldiers share faster and more information during combat, the USAF stated.
ABMS is a part of a broader effort called Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2), which seeks to allow US joint forces, allies, and partners to process data and information from a multitude of sources before an adversary responds.
As an initial part of the effort, the USAF will install communication pods on a few KC-46 Pegasus refueling tankers, which will then act like internet hotspots and disseminate a wealth of previously unavailable data and information to aircraft like the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II.
Army, Navy Programs
Apart from the air force’s ABMS programs, the US Navy is working on a similar project called Project Overmatch. The project aims to “accelerate distributed maritime operations via increased teaming of manned and unmanned platforms,” according to Janes.
Similarly, the US Army’s Integrated Tactical Network “will provide ground domain network connectivity and capability in support of JADC2,” the publication added.