MELBOURNE, Fla., 13 June 2011.Rugged computer specialist DRS Tactical Systems Inc. in Melbourne, Fla., is joining General Dynamics C4 Systems in Scottsdale, Ariz., on a project to deliver prototype rugged handheld computers with wireless communications capability for the U.S. Army’s Joint Battle Command – Platform (JBC-P) program. The order came from the Army Communications-Electronics Research, Development, and Engineering Center (CERDEC) at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md.DRS will develop an ultra-rugged computer, software, suite B security that enables soldiers and Marines to communicate and send and receive friendly force position location. DRS will deliver initial prototypes in September.DRS announced the contract win late last week. General Dynamics C4 Systems announced its contract to provide a prototype rugged handheld computer for the JBC-P program in March. General Dynamics is doing the work under terms of a $2.3 million contract. The contract amount to DRS was not disclosed.
For the JBC-P program, General Dynamics will provide the company's rugged eight-ounce GD300 tactical computer. DRS is not disclosing a specific computer model the company will provide for the JBC-P program.
JBC-P essentially is a follow-on to, or advanced component of, the Army's Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below (FBCB2) program, and will be interoperable with the current FBCB2 Blue Force Tracking (BFT) system. The FBCB2 provides battlefield situational awareness to enable fast, well-informed decisions. The JBC-P is expected to enhance FBCB2 performance, and reduce the risk of fratricide.
For more information contact DRS Tactical Systems online at www.drs-ts.com, or General Dynamics C4 Systems at www.gdc4s.com.
