Lockheed Martin Astronautics is developing the ASAS Block II following an evolutionary acquisition strategy. The Block II program will attain its requirements through a series of phased capability package deliveries. Originally, the four capability package were intended for testing and fielding to expedite delivery of new functions to the field. However, the program office is in the process of changing their acquisition and test strategy by focusing on the development of the Remote Workstation (RWS) and Analysis Control Element (ACE). Operational testing of these packages are anticipated in FY99 and FY00.

The first capability package, Capability Package-Single Source (CP-SS), completed a Limited User Test (LUT) from June 18 through July 11, 1997. The CP-SS LUT had three phases. For the first two phases, soldiers of the 312 Military Intelligence Battalion operated the CP-SS workstations installed in tactical shelters located within the SCIF motorpool at Fort Hood, Texas. During five 12-hour test days, the test unit produced intelligence products by processing Tactical Simulation generated messages representing a Southwest Asia scenario. The third phase, the real world message test at Fort Huachuca, AZ, was developmental in nature and examined the ability of the CP-SS to parse messages created by actual sensors.

The ASAS CP-SS did not meet its criteria in either operational effectiveness or operational suitability. Concerns with message parsing of live (non-exercise) messages indicate that the interactive workload could overwhelm operators reducing quality and quantity of single source intelligence production. During the message parsing evaluation, 438 messages were delivered to CP-SS, but only 19% (82 messages) automatically parsed. This test was an add on directed by DOT&E. This was based on indication in preparation for the LUT, that the CP-SS would not meet the 95% criteria of message parsing. Based on the message compatibility problems, further testing will include this type of testing as a requirement.

Basic software functions were demonstrated, but operators identified only 30% of the possible objects and fully satisfied only 22% of the possible intelligence requests. Software immaturity caused significant reliability and logistics supportability concerns. Further, the software requires significant operator intervention that in turn lowered system confidence and productivity.

Lessons learned from the Block II CP-SS test are being incorporated into the ASAS Remote Workstation (RWS) and the Analysis Control Element (ACE) workstations, the objective ASAS Block II architecture. Task Force XXI and the Division Army Warfighting Experiment (DAWE) have shifted the ASAS program focus from CP-SS to the RWS, the Army intelligence link in the Army Battle Command System (ABCS). The SIGINT software will be tested as part of the final Block II ASAS test in 2d Quarter, FY00. The ASAS Block II all source workstations will include SIGINT processing functionality. The DOT&E and the Army are working to define the appropriate level of testing to support the ASAS Block II acquisition and fielding strategy.