The FBCB2 Network

Using the Blue Force Tracking (BFT) satellite network, the Northrop Grumman FBCB2 system relays information to users who can view regularly updated troop positions on screens in their vehicles and aircraft to differentiate between friendly and enemy forces. The low rate messaging system also provides other types of information to ground vehicles including tanks, armored personnel carriers, and infantry fighting vehicles, as well as U.S. Army rotary wing aircraft.

More Capacity and Improved Accuracy

Increasing network capacity and improving accuracy compared to the current system are the primary upgrade program objectives. The military needs more network capacity, greater accuracy, reduced operating costs, and expanded worldwide coverage.

 Here is how ViaSat will fulfill those requirements:

• Provide new network operations center
• Upgrade satellite ground station hubs
• Final test and delivery of new transceivers for aircraft and land vehicles

ViaSat ArcLight® Spread Spectrum Technology

Implementing our ArcLight system for BFT can dramatically reduce message wait times and increase the number of simultaneous users in high-density operational environments. In addition, the terminal will be designed to operate in a dual mode that enables it to use commercial satellite resources, on-demand, in less dense environments. The resulting system will update information much more quickly, leading to a more accurate and valuable awareness picture that will safeguard troops in action.

Eight Times the Messaging Capacity Per Minute, Per Channel Dramatic performance improvements expected by the new ViaSat system   1st Generation System ViaSat Next Generation System Forward Link 2.6 kbps (50% duty cycle) Up to 120 kbps (100% duty cycle) Return Link   2.6 kbps 3.0 kbps Return Link Simultaneous Transmissions (Max) ~4 ~30 Round Trip Link Latency   Up to 5 to 10 min 10 sec 100byte Return Msgs/min per Satellite Channel 600 Max >5,000 IP Routable   No Yes Full Duplex   No Yes Meets Environmental Requirements No Yes