BAE to assist Navy with interoperable communications

BAE Systems Inc. will collect data from sensors and provide it through a data link to the Navy under a $9 million contract, the company announced today.

The contract is part of the Tactical Common Data Link program that sets up interoperable links to collect and transmit sensor data in real time, thereby enhancing situational awareness and communications for warfighters.

The links must adhere to interoperability and compatibility standards and specifications set by the Defense Department.

Under the contract, which will run through March 2011, BAE will provide research, development and production of nine airborne and ground systems. The company will perform the work in Wayne, N.J.

The BAE Systems data terminals will be installed on Navy aircraft and collect data from sensors while being flown over battle space. A digital link will transmit the data to a command station on the ground.

"The Tactical Common Data Link system provides real-time sensor and targeting information, allowing commanders to quickly assess and respond to threats," Joseph McCarthy, vice president of communications and tactical networks at BAE Systems, said in a news release.

BAE Systems, of Rockville, Md., ranks No. 12 on Washington Technology's 2008 Top 100 list of the largest federal government prime contractors.