Spotlight on S&T; - October 2006

Successful Trial for Networked Underwater Warfare Project

DRDC Atlantic and IP Unwired, the Ottawa-based manufacturer of the Sub-Net Relay wireless network (SNR), have successfully tested the performance of a new wireless network technology, as part of the Networked Underwater Warfare Technology Demonstration Project.

This unique demonstration tested SNR communications between a land-based and an air-based station, proving for the first time that the SNR equipment can maintain a wireless network connection between different platforms.

CONVAIR 580.

This innovative unwired network creates a more automated, effective type of communication by creating an ad hoc network between various platforms. In addition to providing application specific connectivity, the wireless network provides email and chat functions, which allows full participation of every platform's personnel and data for shared situational awareness and problem solving.

The successful trial took place June 21, north of Ottawa. The National Research Council Canada collaborated with DRDC Atlantic by providing their CONVAIR 580, the airborne platform capable of transmitting data using the SNR connected from an ARC-210 radio to the ground station. The ground station used a WSC-3 radio connected to the SNR equipment to enable collaboration between nodes.

The success of this trial heralds the future success of upcoming sea trials scheduled for September 2006 and March 2007. The September 2006 engineering trial will establish an at-sea network capable of transmitting sensor data between multiple platforms, while the third and final demonstration trial in March 2007 will use the at-sea network to send tactical and sensor information between platforms to improve operational effectiveness.

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