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BAE SYSTEMS selected for UK MOD pilot direct broadcast system

29 Mar 2001

Ref: 047/2001

BAE Systems has been selected by the UK Ministry of Defence to carry out a Pilot programme to explore and develop a full Direct Broadcast System capability to support British forces during expeditionary deployments.

The Direct Broadcast System (DBS) will allow huge volumes of information to be broadcast to multiple, geographically dispersed end users in theatre. Central to the MOD's requirement are flexibility of use, future growth potential and, above all, the use of innovative techniques providing a complete managed capability for dissemination of tailored information to the end user in-theatre.

The Pilot DBS acquisition is based on the Smart Procurement Initiative (SPI) and, after an initial delivery this year, will be developed incrementally in stages during the following two years. BAE Systems and the MOD, working closely together, will be able to use lessons learned from the preceding increments to develop successive stages.

PDBS will deliver tailored military information on a worldwide basis over a one-way, secure, satellite broadcast system, initially to a limited user base. Users will be able to specify their information requirements, while information providers will supply relevant information and field commanders will authorise and control user accesses. PDBS will feature robust security measures, interoperability with allied systems, reach-back into existing links and legacy systems integration. Key drivers also include reduced manpower requirements, low lifecycle costs and comprehensive support.

BAE Systems' response to the PDBS requirement reflects its comprehensive understanding of communications requirements and exploits experience gained in programmes within the digitised battlespace. A modular, phased approach to system design allows best-of-breed product selection from both existing military and commercial communications product suppliers. The company's knowledge of broadcast system management and interfaces, and in overall systems integration and project management, are reflected in its innovative bid for this important project.

An Interim Operational Capability will be achieved in 2001, with initial trials taking place within Exercise SAIF SAREEA in the Oman later this year. Mid Operational Capability will be achieved by the end of 2002 and Full Operational Capability of the Pilot system by the end of 2003.

The BAE Systems team - based at its Portsmouth site - includes partners DERA, Kingston MediaStream, General Dynamics of the USA, ComputaCenter and SAIC.