Military

Navy to Demonstrate New Shipboard AT/FP System

NAVSEA News Wire

Release Date: 7/25/2003

By Chief Journalist David Nagle, Naval Sea Systems Command Public Affairs

WASHINGTON -- The Program Executive Office for Integrated Warfare Systems, in conjunction with Commander, Fleet Forces Command; Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet; and the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane (Ind.) Division is conducting a pierside technology demonstration of the Integrated Radar Optical Surveillance and Sighting System (IROS3) aboard USS Ramage (DDG 61) on July 30 at Naval Station Norfolk.

IROS3 is an overarching Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection (AT/FP) system that integrates sensor information and communication data while also combining semi-automated engagement capability. It integrates a digital radar picture, electro-optics, non-lethal deterrence and remote engagement by small arms and minor caliber guns into a single console to display a common tactical scene for ships' force to maintain 24-hour situational awareness between watchstanders, patrol boats, piers and shore-based stations.

Following the terrorist attack on USS Cole (DDG 67) in October 2000, the Chief of Naval Operations created Task Force Hip Pocket, an OPNAV working group to address needs in ship's AT/FP posture and build a layered defense for ships against small boat attacks while in port and underway.

"The group determined the need for ships to detect and classify asymmetric threats, maintain a 360-degree situational awareness and effectively engage small, close-in surface threats," said Peter Karounos, IROS3 project manager. "IROS3 addresses those needs."

Following several initial demonstrations in 2001 by NSWC Crane, IROS3 was selected by the OPNAV N7/N8 Technology Working Group as its top AT/FP shipboard initiative.

IROS3 combines new software with existing and new hardware sensors, including existing surface search radar, new electro-optic and night vision sensor systems, new stabilized gun mount assemblies, Global Positioning System data and operator consoles for both bridge and Combat Information Center teams.

IROS3 will offer a number of benefits, including a flexible architecture concept that promotes multiple configurations for varying requirements, increased situational awareness and improved quality of life for shipboard Sailors.

"By integrating all of these functions, IROS3 will reduce the number of watchstanders required for roving patrols," said Karounos.