Eyes, Ears, Action
Written by Steve Goodman
CGF 2009 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 (November)
Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) is part of the mission of every branch of the U.S. military. Ever since the terror attacks of 9/11, ISR has become of far greater importance to the USCG, and its vital role in homeland security.
“To speak to the post-9/11 challenges,” said Commander Cliff Neve, chief C4ISR acquisition engineer, USCG, “there is certainly a greater need for intelligence gathering, and we see that borne out in emerging sponsor requirements. We are rolling in more intelligence-gathering systems and also ensuring communications interoperability with our partner Department of Homeland Security and DoD agencies.”
Contractors who supply ISR equipment and systems to USCG couldn’t agree more. Scott Conner, vice president and general manager of the Axsys Technologies Division, with General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems, (GDAIS) echoes Neve’s thoughts. “The mission of the Coast Guard sits at the intersection of many important homeland defense and law enforcement missions. Their charter spans land, sea and air surveillance, thus requiring a wide range of sensor technologies, as well as highly capable data management, dissemination, and decision making capabilities.”
The USCG implemented the Integrated Deepwater System (IDS) moderinzation program, with the goal of improved situational awareness and modernized integration of shore sites, surface and aviation platforms. The ambitious program was initiated in 2002. The primary contractor for the huge undertaking is Integrated Coast Guard Systems (ICGS), a joint venture equal partnership between Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. ICGS received a contract valued at over $11 billion to upgrade and modernize the Coast Guard’s Deepwater assets over the next 20 years.
When completed, the USCG will have an interoperable system that will include new high-tech cutters and small boats, a new fleet of air assets including fixed wing aircraft, new and upgraded helicopters, and land and vessel based UAVs. A key element of the program is command, control, communication, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems. According to Neve, “First of all, our strategy is to produce common baselines that are tailored for each type of asset to ensure standardization, lower life cycle costs, and ensure interoperability. Baselines for command and control systems on air and surface assets are developed and delivered concurrently, which is extremely powerful in ensuring coordination of Coast Guard assets. While we are supporting one baseline, we are producing the next one, while planning for the one after that.”
In February of this year, the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Coast Guard Communications, Computers and Information Technology Service Center (C4IT SC) was held at the Coast Guard Telecommunication and Information Systems Center in Alexandria, Va. When fully operational, C4IT SC will consist of 3,000 individuals who will administer a $300 million-plus budget to provide C4IT services in support of Coast Guard missions, including maritime and intelligence sensors, integrated knowledge and information systems, and enterprise computer data.
To accomplish these admirable goals the Coast Guard has turned to a number of technologies and a variety of suppliers with years of expertise in the field. Neve said, “The prime contractor for our first segment of capability, which has been fielded, and our second increment, which is being produced now, is ICGS. Within our second segment we are migrating toward open architecture, which will decrease reliance on proprietary systems and provide more flexibility, particularly at the interfaces, between systems from multiple vendors.”
Among recent C4ISR awards, primary contractor Bollinger Shipyards Inc. selected L-3 Communications as a subcontractor for much of the C4ISR work on the Fast Response Cutter program—a contract estimated to be in excess of $100 million over a two-year period.
The contract is to provide C4ISR integration for the USCG’s Sentinel class of “Fast Response” cutters. Said Greg Roberts, president of L-3 Communication Systems-East, “Our C4ISR system will make the Sentinel the most capable patrol boat in the Coast Guard fleet. We’ve utilized best-in-class products including the integrated bridge and navigation control system from L-3 Marine Systems, alarms and announcing systems from L-3 Henschel, and our own MarCom integrated and automated internal/ external voice communications system.” USCG expects to take delivery of the first Sentinel Class patrol boats sometime in 2011.
One of the aircraft assets vital to C4ISR is the HC-144A. The HC-144A is a fixed wing aircraft also known as the Ocean Sentry. It is to be used in a variety of mission profiles and operations including ISR, interdiction, and search and rescue. The HC-144A Ocean Sentry achieved Initial Operational Capability April 2, 2009, and thus far eight such aircraft have been delivered. The HC-144A is equipped with Star SAFIRE III stabilized multisensor arrays, manufactured by FLIR Systems of Portland, Ore.
“In the post 9-11 environment the Coast Guard has taken on a greater law enforcement role, and is using sensor technology to provide Homeland security in all shapes and forms,” said David Frances, Business Development manager for homeland security for FLIR Systems. “In the case of the Star SAFIRE III, this system was configured to Coast Guard specifications for all Deepwater assets, the 144A, the HC-130J and the National Security Cutter. So from a logistics and maintenance standpoint its one configuration, one part number if you will, that can be floated or flown an all of these three assets.”
The SAFIRE III is a gyrostabilized thermal imaging device that delivers high-resolution images even in the total darkness of a moonless night. For daytime operations the systems expands surveillance capabilities into low light situations, and allows operations from dawn to dusk. According to the manufacturer, its stabilization technology provides solid images during high speeds or rough air at any time of day or night. The 15-inchdiameter turret houses a high-resolution infrared camera, a color daylight zoom camera, a color daylight spotter scope and a laser rangefinder.
As part of C4ISR Deepwater acquisitions, the HC-144A is also equipped with a radar system developed by New Yorkbased Telephonics, Inc. The system has already proven itself aboard USCG assets such as the HU-25 D Guardian Falcon jet. “ISR is one of the Coast Guard’s primary missions, search and rescue, homeland security, mission control, all require ISR technologies,” said Richard Righi, Director Coast Guard programs, Telephonics Radar Systems Division. “Our radar is a primary system to help USCG with their mission effectiveness.”
Telephonics has been working closely with the USCG to provide maritime radar solutions specific to their needs and operations. “We have developed several modes of particular interest to USCG,” said Righi. “We provide an enhanced small target detection mode that allows them to detect smaller targets at higher sea states and from higher altitudes.”
NEW MISSION, NEW ASSETS
One of the cornerstones of the Deepwater Program is the delivery of the National Security Cutter (NSC). At 418 feet, the NSC is the largest of the three major classes of Coast Guard cutters, and will replace the aging 378-foot High Endurance Hamilton class cutters that have been in service since the 1960s. Designated the Legend Class, the NSC is slated to become the flagship of the USCG, and it is the most technically advanced class of cutter ever built. Compared to legacy cutters, the NSC’s design allows higher sustained transit speeds, greater endurance and range, and the ability for launch and recovery in rougher waters.
In May the newly commissioned CGC Bertholf was the first NSC granted authority to operate for its C4ISR systems, joining the fleet in fully operational status, and clearing the way for the advanced cutters to take their rightful place as flag ship.
On July 8, 2009, the vessel and its crew conducted their first successful narcotics trafficking interdiction. The cutter seized two suspected drug smuggling boats, and detained four, recovering a bale of cocaine indicative of a major drug smuggling operation. In a USCG press release issued at the time, Admiral Thad Allen, commandant of the Coast Guard, said, “I am proud of the Bertholf’s crew and congratulate them on this milestone achievement for the Coast Guard’s newest cutter. The Bertholf’s management of this very dynamic law enforcement situation shows the usefulness and importance of launching a new generation of modern, wellequipped cutters to protect the American people—and she’s living up to the high standard set by her predecessors.”
Neve clearly echoes Allen’s thoughts, and he adds specific to Bertholf’s C4ISR architecture, “Bertholf’s command-andcontrol capability is clearly superior to any other vessel in the fleet. One of the aspects of Bertholf that stands out is the automatic correlation of information from multiple sensors. The Holy Grail that we pursue is that our operators have information from all of their own platform sensors, correlated with all partner platform sensors, to provide all of the information that they need to begin assessing targets and executing missions immediately. Advanced technologies such as those aboard the Bertholf and the integration of such assets via C4ISR has certainly enhanced USCG’s role as the leading agency for maritime homeland security. ... Upgrades as the result of IDS have already shown real-world value in the mission that USCG is best known for, search and rescue.”
Programs to upgrade USCG assets such as Deepwater and C4ISR are creating enhanced market opportunities for suppliers of maritime sensor equipment. In September of 2009 GDAIS Acquired Axsys Technologies, a manufacturer of high-end stabilized cameras.
“Axsys delivers innovative, high-value products in a market segment that is strategic for General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems. Its capabilities strengthen our existing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance expertise in the high-growth tactical ISR market,” said Conner. He added, “The Axsys sensor technologies are well suited to the maritime market, in general and specifically to USCG operations.”
GDAIS has deployed Axsys camera systems for the Coast Guard via the Jay- Hawk Program, at ports including Boston, Charleston, Miami and San Diego.
Under C4ISR upgrades, USCG’s entire fleet of Hercules HC-130 aircraft, along with a total of 89 other fixed wing and long range surveillance helicopters, has been equipped with the Rockwell Collins DF-430-F Multi-mission Direction Finding (DF) system. The DF-430 has saved 47 lives since its introduction to the service. According to USCG, a number of these rescues occurred after searches with older style direction finders were unsuccessful. The DF-430 has been designed to detect emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) activations at both 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz. Older style detectors could only detect the 121.5 signals of legacy EPIRBs. Using the DF-430, the more robust 406 MHz signal can be picked up by USCG aircraft as far as 160 miles away.
“The longer the reach, the more effective each asset becomes, and that drives down enterprise costs and increases capability,” Neve said. “The sensor integration and common operating picture allows for greatly improved coordination and faster decision-making, which enhances effectiveness of all Coast Guard missions.”
FLIR Systems sensors are also an integral part of the MH-65C’s of the USCG’s Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON). Commander Matt Rother, described an interdiction that turned search and rescue when drug smugglers jumped off of their go-fast boat to avoid capture. “It was very dark that night. That is the great thing about FLIR [forwardlooking infrared], we found them with the heat signature of the IR. We could not see them with our NVGs [night vision goggles], even when close, due to the extreme darkness and haze. Eventually, we put the spotlight on them and only then could I see them. They had no lifejackets on—the FLIR and operator essentially saved their lives.”
AHEAD FULL
In May the newly commissioned CGC Bertholf was the first NSC granted authority to operate for its C4ISR systems, joining the fleet in fully operational status, and clearing the way for the advanced cutters to take their rightful place as flag ship.
On July 8, 2009, the vessel and its crew conducted their first successful narcotics trafficking interdiction. The cutter seized two suspected drug smuggling boats, and detained four, recovering a bale of cocaine indicative of a major drug smuggling operation. In a USCG press release issued at the time, Admiral Thad Allen, commandant of the Coast Guard, said, “I am proud of the Bertholf’s crew and congratulate them on this milestone achievement for the Coast Guard’s newest cutter. The Bertholf’s management of this very dynamic law enforcement situation shows the usefulness and importance of launching a new generation of modern, wellequipped cutters to protect the American people—and she’s living up to the high standard set by her predecessors.”
Neve clearly echoes Allen’s thoughts, and he adds specific to Bertholf’s C4ISR architecture, “Bertholf’s command-andcontrol capability is clearly superior to any other vessel in the fleet. One of the aspects of Bertholf that stands out is the automatic correlation of information from multiple sensors. The Holy Grail that we pursue is that our operators have information from all of their own platform sensors, correlated with all partner platform sensors, to provide all of the information that they need to begin assessing targets and executing missions immediately. Advanced technologies such as those aboard the Bertholf and the integration of such assets via C4ISR has certainly enhanced USCG’s role as the leading agency for maritime homeland security. ... Upgrades as the result of IDS have already shown real-world value in the mission that USCG is best known for, search and rescue.”
Programs to upgrade USCG assets such as Deepwater and C4ISR are creating enhanced market opportunities for suppliers of maritime sensor equipment. In September of 2009 GDAIS Acquired Axsys Technologies, a manufacturer of high-end stabilized cameras.
“Axsys delivers innovative, high-value products in a market segment that is strategic for General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems. Its capabilities strengthen our existing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance expertise in the high-growth tactical ISR market,” said Conner. He added, “The Axsys sensor technologies are well suited to the maritime market, in general and specifically to USCG operations.”
GDAIS has deployed Axsys camera systems for the Coast Guard via the Jay- Hawk Program, at ports including Boston, Charleston, Miami and San Diego.
Under C4ISR upgrades, USCG’s entire fleet of Hercules HC-130 aircraft, along with a total of 89 other fixed wing and long range surveillance helicopters, has been equipped with the Rockwell Collins DF-430-F Multi-mission Direction Finding (DF) system. The DF-430 has saved 47 lives since its introduction to the service. According to USCG, a number of these rescues occurred after searches with older style direction finders were unsuccessful. The DF-430 has been designed to detect emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) activations at both 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz. Older style detectors could only detect the 121.5 signals of legacy EPIRBs. Using the DF-430, the more robust 406 MHz signal can be picked up by USCG aircraft as far as 160 miles away.
“The longer the reach, the more effective each asset becomes, and that drives down enterprise costs and increases capability,” Neve said. “The sensor integration and common operating picture allows for greatly improved coordination and faster decision-making, which enhances effectiveness of all Coast Guard missions.”
FLIR Systems sensors are also an integral part of the MH-65C’s of the USCG’s Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON). Commander Matt Rother, described an interdiction that turned search and rescue when drug smugglers jumped off of their go-fast boat to avoid capture. “It was very dark that night. That is the great thing about FLIR [forwardlooking infrared], we found them with the heat signature of the IR. We could not see them with our NVGs [night vision goggles], even when close, due to the extreme darkness and haze. Eventually, we put the spotlight on them and only then could I see them. They had no lifejackets on—the FLIR and operator essentially saved their lives.”
AHEAD FULL
Modernization of the USCG’s abilities through C4ISR and other Deepwater acquisition strategies provides operational commanders the tactical awareness, planning and decision tools required to save more lives and prosecute all Coast Guard missions and operations more effectively and efficiently. “The technology that has been provided so far is extremely impressive, particularly the command and control systems. These systems allow for very fast, automated correlation of information that gives operators unprecedented information about surface and air contacts,” said Neve. Regarding what is next for the program, he added, “Next we’ll be deploying a more robust system of collectors and sensors, as well as increased bandwidth to our platforms to facilitate more and enhanced information exchanges. We are also actively working to deliver a sensitive compartment information facility to the national security cutters; that capability would be very beneficial to our national security and maritime law-enforcement missions.”
Improved intelligence capabilities, including collection, dissemination and analysis of data, are also provided through systemwide fusion. By integrating each asset’s passive and active sensor information, C4ISR will enhance the USCG Common Operational Picture. “By getting away from stovepiped asset development, we can ensure that our systems have a common look, feel and operability across platforms. We have been very successful on the National Security Cutter, and the mission system pallets for the military patrol aircraft, in terms of integration.”
“The Coast Guard’s mission really is unique from a maritime radar standpoint,” added Telephonics’ Righi. “They are going out in bluewater operations, in bad weather after very small targets that are in danger. We do our best to work with them to develop systems to meet these challenges.”
What then is the ultimate goal of Deepwater? As Neve puts it, “What we strive for is to increase the reach of each of our assets. I don’t believe that the needs have changed; since I have been in the service we have always strived for the maximum visibility so that we can get the most out of the air, surface and shore resources that we have.”
FLIR’s Francis describes the future this way, “From an ISR standpoint whenever we gain the upperhand with a new technology, the bad guys always come up with a new way to challenge us. So all the way around ISR needs will just continue grow, and what that does is force the industry to develop new techniques by teaming with USCG and other DoD agencies to create our roadmap to the future.” Or put another way, upgrading interoperability and modernizing through IDS and C4ISR is making the credo of the USCG—Always Ready—ring truer now than ever before. ♦
Improved intelligence capabilities, including collection, dissemination and analysis of data, are also provided through systemwide fusion. By integrating each asset’s passive and active sensor information, C4ISR will enhance the USCG Common Operational Picture. “By getting away from stovepiped asset development, we can ensure that our systems have a common look, feel and operability across platforms. We have been very successful on the National Security Cutter, and the mission system pallets for the military patrol aircraft, in terms of integration.”
“The Coast Guard’s mission really is unique from a maritime radar standpoint,” added Telephonics’ Righi. “They are going out in bluewater operations, in bad weather after very small targets that are in danger. We do our best to work with them to develop systems to meet these challenges.”
What then is the ultimate goal of Deepwater? As Neve puts it, “What we strive for is to increase the reach of each of our assets. I don’t believe that the needs have changed; since I have been in the service we have always strived for the maximum visibility so that we can get the most out of the air, surface and shore resources that we have.”
FLIR’s Francis describes the future this way, “From an ISR standpoint whenever we gain the upperhand with a new technology, the bad guys always come up with a new way to challenge us. So all the way around ISR needs will just continue grow, and what that does is force the industry to develop new techniques by teaming with USCG and other DoD agencies to create our roadmap to the future.” Or put another way, upgrading interoperability and modernizing through IDS and C4ISR is making the credo of the USCG—Always Ready—ring truer now than ever before. ♦