Three-month test demonstrates Warfighter Information Network-Tactical (WIN-T) can support networking needs of more than 4000 warfighters

A General Dynamics-led team recently completed a successful developmental test of the Warfighter Information Network – Tactical (WIN-T) Increment 2 on-the-move broadband networking capability. The test included building and operating a network comprising more than 35 network nodes. In a tactical environment, a network this size would support an Army Division and associated brigade, battalion and company elements.

“We built and successfully tested the largest mobile network of its kind and we’re on pace to start Increment 2 limited user testing in March,” said Bill Weiss, vice president of tactical networks for General Dynamics C4 Systems.

A critical enabler of LandWarNet, the U.S. Army’s segment of the Global Information Grid (GIG), the WIN-T Increment 2 system provides an environment in which commanders at all echelons will have the ability to maneuver anywhere on the battlefield and communicate and collaborate with warfighters, command posts and analytical centers at remote locations throughout the battlespace.

During the testing period, various experiments also evaluated the maturity of technologies and components that comprise WIN-T Increment 3, which will provide enhanced capabilities and information security using smaller, lighter, more power-efficient equipment. The Increment 2 and Increment 3 testing took place at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, from September through December 2008.

General Dynamics C4 Systems is the prime systems integrator for WIN-T and is teamed with Lockheed Martin. The WIN-T team also includes BAE Systems, Harris Corporation, L-3 Communications and CISCO Systems.

The program is organized into four major increments:

Increment 1 – the former Joint Network Node, enhances existing joint networking and stationary satellite communications; more than half of the Army’s forces are equipped with WIN-T Increment 1 and fielding will continue until Increment 2 is ready.
Increment 2 – will deliver on-the-move broadband networking capability using satellite and radio links; initial fielding is scheduled during 2009.
Increment 3 – continues development of WIN-T components to enable increased network capacity, security and enhanced on-the-move capabilities combined with reductions in system size, weight and power requirements; limited user testing is scheduled for 2011.
Increment 4 – represents the last of the developmental program elements; contract award is pending.

General Dynamics C4 Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), is a leading integrator of secure communication and information systems and technology. General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 92,300 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about the company is available online at www.gd.com.