A -- Adaptive Joint C4ISR Node (AJCN)

DARPA and the Army are seeking information on capabilities to develop, integrate and demonstrate an Adaptive Joint C4ISR Node (AJCN). The AJCN is a multi-function C4ISR payload that will be based on a modular, scaleable architecture. AJCN functionality will include communications, signals intelligence (SIGINT) and electronic warfare/information operations. Although the focus of the contemplated effort and the primary application is on airborne platforms (both manned and unmanned), the node will also have applications on ground and sea platforms. The payload will enable users of dissimilar radios to communicate via software programmable waveforms and re-configurable hardware and processing components. The payload will incorporate Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) software waveforms. The payload must provide both voice and data interoperability between different waveforms. The payload will also simultaneously perform other RF missions including SIGINT and electronic warfare/information operations. At a minimum, the payload is expected to provide/ support the following functionality: Separate & Simultaneous Communications, SIGINT and Electronic Attack - to include Detection, DF, identification automatic signal recognition, and copy of at least 3 narrowband and 2 wideband signals while processing at least 5 communications (or electronic attack) channels Communication: SINCGARS, Havequick, EPLRS, JTRS wideband networking waveform, surrogate UHF SATCOM, Link 16, PCS (or PCS-like), FCS-C low band waveform, Intelligence Broadcasts (e.g., TIBS), and Crosslink(s). TCDL/MP-CDL functionality shall be included but it can be federated. Information Operations Message Translation (e.g. Link 16 - VMF) Instantaneous Receive Bandwidth: Aggregate of 480 MHz (minimum) Transmit Signals: 8 minimum Tuning Range: Receive- 2 MHz to 3 GHz; Transmit- 20 MHz to 3 GHz Wideband Communications at 10-45 Mbps Robust Operation in the presence of jamming (minimum of 3 nulls of >20 dB) Interference cancellation (active) and mitigation techniques for both cosite and offboard co-channel signals Payload Control: Payload control executed via an RF link from the ground Dynamic Resource Configuration - In-flight reconfiguration of Mission Allocation (Communications/ SIGINT/Electronic Attack) and Functionality within Mission Allocation Multi-Mission Security Architecture Size: Maximum of 500 lbs and 5 kW Interested parties are requested to provide a white paper (maximum of 20 pages) that describes their capabilities to build, integrate, and demonstrate an AJCN. The paper should briefly describe the projected payload functionality and size, weight, and power. In addition, the paper should describe related work that shows credibility for developing and demonstrating by mid-FY05 a programmable multi-mission payload. White papers should be submitted by 6 May 2002 to the following address: Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency ATTN: ATO 3701 North Fairfax Drive Arlington, VA 22203-1714 The effort under consideration is a follow-on to DARPA's ongoing Adaptive C4ISR Node (ACN - formerly Airborne Communications Node) research and development program and will develop, integrate, and demonstrate airborne payloads on manned platforms such as an RC-12 and a KC-135. This effort will start in the first quarter of FY03 and the flight demonstration will occur in the second quarter of FY05. DARPA will evaluate the responses to this Request for Information to determine if there is sufficient industry capability to warrant full and open competition.