The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has awarded BAE Systems a $24 million contract to develop software that autonomously configures tactical networks for mission-critical communications.
The agreement is part of the Mission-Integrated Network Control (MINC) program to develop tech that delivers “the right data to the right user at the right time.”
It aims to build and demonstrate an advanced, secure communications network for multi-domain operations.
“Reliable data and communications networks are critical in modern warfare,” the company said. “Currently, no capability exists to dynamically control interconnected networks and ensure that warfighters can communicate across domains in contested environments.”
As part of the contract, BAE Systems will develop the algorithms and necessary software to “anticipate, configure, and control” available resources to optimize the flow of information.
Environment-Specific Communications
Company chief scientist Brian Decleene explained that the military must have a secure and adaptable communications network amid highly congested and contested environments.
He stated that there have been advances in networking, autonomy, and mission planning that support development of tactical networks specific to the operating environment.
BAE Systems vows to leverage its “robust” networking, communications, and autonomy portfolio to build an effective network technology for the US Army.