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After parallel development of two Army C2 systems
designated GeFuSys and FuWES-Kern H, the two programs were integrated
into the C2 system currently known as "Faust" (Fahrungsausstattung
Taktische). Faust was further designed to be integrated into the
division level and army-wide FuInfosys H C4I system. the tactical C2
system, was deployed in 2003 with a battalion-size Battle Group West,
part the allied forces in Afghanistan (ISAF). Since June 2004, Faust
was introduced for operational evaluation the German elements in the
peacekeeping forces in KFOR, SFOR and has been cleared for operational
use in February 2005.
Faust is designed with modular elements, which can implement new
modules, regular upgrades and local adaptations to the basic system.
Each Faust unit is linked to a vehicle and transmits its own GPS
position to the network. The basic service provided by the system are
the geographic information display (GIS) map display and "Blue Force
Tracking", monitoring all friendly elements in the area over a digital
map, and providing commanders with common and updated operational
picture. Other services include secure messaging, communications
management and control and general office automation functions.
Monitoring all activities and resources over a digital map
dramatically improves the utilization of assets, reduces voice
communications and generally improves command and control. This
function also supports an "emergency call" which transmits the
vehicle's position and emergency alert which flashes on the
recipients' map. Faust was developed by EADS Deutchland GmbH.
Faust has been integrated with a wide range of communications systems.
Primary terrestrial communications were provided by VHF (combat net
radios) and GSM (commercial cellular networks). Satellite
communications were also provided during testing and expeditionary
deployments. The system can also utilize terrestrial lines using ISDN/AUTAOKO
90 protocol. Following the decision by the German Ministry of Defense
to field Future introduction of Tetrapol military communications
systems will be required in the future.
The GIS and mapping functions support different scales of maps, as
well as on-screen position, range and area measurements, path finding,
perspective views etc. The system provides automated task
organization. Tasks can be displayed in a "tree" form, enabling "drag
and drop" of elements between various units for. Every change is
reflected in the relevant unit's organization, and "to do" list. |
