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The IDF is deploying several
new systems that are designed to improve the integration
between tactical forces, and their links to the regional and
strategic command level. In 2002 the IDF launched an ambitious "Digitalized
Land Forces" program which will "digitalize" its entire land
force. Elbit Systems is the prime contractor for the Digital Army
program. One of the key devices utilized for information
distribution is the rugged Personal Digital
Assistant, (RPDA-88) produced by Tadiran Communications. This
device is a fully militarized Pocket-PC used by field commanders
and troops. The system is provided with important functions such
as situational awareness, communications and navigation derived
from integral GPS, processing and networking services.
Another system shown here was a new interconnection
system, developed by Tadiran Communications, which provides
connectivity between different networks, such as those of the
Army, Air Force, police, emergency services and security forces.
The system links to every network and utilizes a common Voice Over
IP (VoIP) interface to provide clear communications between all
networks. The company also unveiled its
PRC-710MB, a
lightweight multi-band, frequency hopping voice/data VHF/UHF hand
held radio system.
Elbit, in cooperation with Motorola Communications
Systems is also fielding an integrated
LIC C2 system,
which will be deployed during 2004 with IDF units engaged in LIC
activities. The new communication system tracks the location and
status of deployed unit, assists in the creation of a unified
situational picture and enables seamless transfer of messages,
maps and images between deployed forces and command posts.
The IDF has invested a great effort in a geographical survey of
its theaters of operation, especially the urban area in the West
bank and Gaza. The modeling of the area was done by Tiltan Systems
Engineering which utilized a special graphical 3D engine which
generates photo-realistic models of urban area. Using this 3D
model, the IDF can plan, rehearse and simulate missions, on a
"digital sand table" which realistically simulates the real scene.
The 3D model also assist in fine tuning of operational plans, identifying potential problems such as observation, coverage,
and potential engagements between friendly forces operating in the
dense urban area. Elbit's
contribution to the IDF LIC operations also includes various
observation systems, including the Long Range Observation Systems
(LOROS), and the airborne Advanced Multi-sensor Payload System
(AMPS), deployed on light aircraft, flying support missions for MOUT operations. The company also produces the Hermes 450
UAVs providing the core of the IDF UAV force.
Integrated C4I
systems also developed by Elbit facilitate seamless integration
of forces, including ground – air and air-air voice and data
connectivity between helicopters and ground forces, and effective
control of snipers, as part of the MOUT operation. Another
network, designed specifically for LIC and urban warfare is the
Sniper Control System,
which provides full control of multiple snipers, as part of a MOUT
operation. Elbit developed several types of elevated sensors
designed specifically for LIC. Lightweight, stabilized
payloads can be mounted foldable masts or tethered under an aerostat.
Other platforms provide accurate targeting for precision guided
weapons, such as laser guided missiles and aerial munitions, the
company also offers a portable lightweight laser designator (PLLD),
which can be employed by forward troops and Special Forces or
mounted on lightweight payloads. Ness TSG also introduced an
integrated Tactical C2
system designed to support tactical commanders in planning and
decision making process.

RAFAEL unveiled new technologies and systems, which can operate as stand alone
systems, or integrate and improve wider C4I systems.
The company
is also introducing its
C4ISR (RTC)
system, to provide tactical units with independent support for
mission planning, navigation, situational awareness, target
acquisition and engagement. The system functions with ruggedized
laptop computers and can be employed with mobile and dismounted
troops, including Special Forces. This application, formerly known
as Spike C4I, was tested with units equipped with the
Spike missile where it demonstrated improved combat
effectiveness of small units by accelerating the sensor-to-shooter
cycle between reconnaissance and assault forces.
Other technologies include
a new data fusion
platform, designed to integrate multiple data feeds from many
sensors can generating cohesive, dynamic situational picture in
real time, where multiple instances of a single target (such as
vehicle moving along a road) are depicted as a single, dynamic
target. Data fusion algorithms are based on parameters such as
geographic data and time stamps, as well as specific
characteristics of every data source (such as sensors). The dynamic
presentation helps simplifying a complex situation, by focusing
the user's attention to the relevant information, in a context
based situational picture.
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