Lockheed Martin recently completed early delivery of intra-fire unit communications kits designed for use with the tri-national Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS). This tactical hardware for the MEADS Internal Communications Subsystem (MICS) will support integration, test and qualification of MEADS elements.

MICS provides secure communications between the MEADS sensors, launchers and battle managers across a high-speed internet protocol network. Through a capability called "plug-and-fight," sensors, shooters or other battle managers act as nodes on the network.

From the MEADS battle manager, a commander can add or subtract nodes as the situation dictates without shutting down the system. With MICS, these MEADS elements can be positioned for maximum lethality and survivability while maintaining clear, rapid and efficient communication.

"Our technology helps the warfighter maintain situational awareness and combat superiority," said Rich Russell, director of sensors, data links and advanced programs in Lockheed Martin's Missiles and Fire Control business.

"With MICS, ground units can exchange command, control and status data over a secure network."

MICS provides plug-and-fight technology for streamlined data exchange. MICS software minimizes the need for an individual to manage the network because it dynamically reconfigures as weapon system end items enter and exit. It also autonomously routes network traffic past anything that might slow it down or stop it.

The MEADS system combines superior battlefield protection with new flexibility to protect forces and critical assets against tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles and aircraft.

It improves capability to defend troops and critical assets through improvements in range, interoperability, mobility and full 360-degree defense capability against the evolving threat.

MEADS defends up to eight times the coverage area of current sectored systems with far fewer system assets and significantly reduces demand for deployed personnel and equipment, which reduces demand for airlift.

MEADS International, a multinational joint venture headquartered in Orlando, Fla., is the prime contractor for the MEADS system.

Major subcontractors and joint venture partners are MBDA in Italy, LFK in Germany and Lockheed Martin in the United States. MEADS International awarded Lockheed Martin the MICS design and development contract in December 2006.