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With the progressive fielding of tactical radios
capable of voice and data transfer, as well as dedicated data radios,
the next step in the evolution of tactical command and control is the
creation of a "tactical internet", enabling combatants at all levels to
exchange and access information from any connected source.
DI@NE, a mobile tactical internet developed by Thales,
is an example of this type of network. Similar systems displayed at
Eurosatory 06 included the digital networking system, based
on the Israeli Army DAP
developed by Elbit Systems and the new Aw@renet system, developed by
Tadiran Communications.
 A new concept of integrating planning, rehearsal and operational
control was demonstrated by EADS with the new
APLET tactical engagement planning tool,
which is intended for motorized and armored brigades and is
interoperable with the French Forces'
SICF C3 system. The system
simulates the structure and operations of French Army Battalions, enabling
the Brigade staff to simulate a 24 hour operation ito fit into a
10 minute time frame.
Enabling personal communications and support of dismounted troops,
SOLAR Personnel role radio, developed by Thales Land & Joint Systems
Division is providing voice, data and video at rates of up to 1Mbps. The system uses
waveform optimized for urban combat environments. Thales positions
SOLAR as the heart of its wireless local area combat network,
interfacing directly with battle management systems in their man
portable or vehicular configurations.
 Applications deployed over the "tactical internet" include
BMS systems such as
the new SIT-V1 demonstrated by GIAT Industries. The company
has already
delivered some 400 SIT
systems to the French and UAE armies, and is set to begin deliveries
of an additional 1,000 SIT V-1 systems to equip French Army tactical
level combat units. Further improvements on the horizon will
integrate SIT BMS with formations operating the
FELIN dismounted infantry
combat systems. Designated
SIT COMDE, (FELIN BMS Dismounted Combat),
the system relies on tactical radio networks, satellite navigation
(GPS) and
digital mapping to provide situational awareness for dismounted units.
SIT COMDE uses a palm sized BMS to be employed by squad, and platoon
leaders, to complement the vehicle's BMS. When development is complete Sagem will
deliver 1,500 SIT COMDE units, to equip squad and dismounted soldier (FELIN)
group leaders, and 4,500 SITEL units, adapted for various vehicles
operated by infantry, cavalry and combat engineering units.
As of early 2006, SIT is currently in service with 250 command
vehicles deployed with the first two "digitized combined brigades".
According to plans, the delivery of a total 750 command vehicles will
be completed by 2010.
Tadiran Spectralink introduced the new
TARGET (Tactical
Ruggedized Video Transmitter) to enable video and data transmissions
for special operations forces.
 The miniature transmitter weighs only
140 grams and can operate continuously for 3 hours on its battery
power. This device can be connected to a video camera carried on a
miniature unmanned platform, a helmet mounted camera carried by a
soldier or coupled into a sniper's sight, to transfer the views to
command elements to ranges up to 2,000 meters. Video signals can be
received by standard remote video terminals, such as
V-RAMBO, VTVR and TVL-II.
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