July 2010

Whether it is the Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 140-2 compliant encryption for FOUO or otherwise unclassified content or National Security Agency (NSA) certified Type 1 encryption for classified material, encryption keeps data and communications safe even if it physically or electronically falls into the wrong hands. Not using encryption only exposes identities, missions and lives to unnecessary risk.

Speed was the focus of the Trident Warrior 2010 U.S. Navy experiment: increasing the speed of communications, assessments and especially acquisition.

With the development of the Afghan Air Force six to nine months behind schedule, the commander of the Combined Air Power Transition Force pushes for more technology, teaching tools and NATO support.

Service introduces Prophet Enhanced system into the field at lightning speed under ISR surge.

The U.S. Army and Air Force are on the same page- saving time and money by sharing one geospatial data network.

An ultra-fast search algorithm that finds patterns in social networks could impact national security, businesses and individuals. A team of University of Maryland researchers developed the computer program, which can be used to uncover covert agents and terrorist groups communicating via social media sites such as Facebook, Flickr, YouTube and Twitter.

In a headline-driven nation where the death of Anna Nicole Smith bumps video of a battle in Baghdad off the news, a roundtable program from the U.S. Defense Department’s Emerging Media Directorate engages bloggers and downrange commanders in rich conversation.

Government agencies and other organizations responding to the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti in January were able to coordinate efforts better thanks to the deployment of new information-sharing technology.

Homefront Help is SIGNAL Connections’ effort to support U.S. service members, veterans and their families. The column highlights programs that offer resources and assistance to the military community ranging from care packages to benefits and everything in between. In that same spirit, Homefront Help presents opportunities for readers to donate time, offer resources and send words of thanks to those who sacrifice for freedom. Programs that provide services are listed in red. Opportunities for the public to reach out to service members are listed in blue. Each program description includes a link to the organization's website, when available. Homefront Help also has a Facebook page where visitors can gather and share information.

Blue Star Museums

Soldiers’ Wearable C4 Platform

The recently introduced FalconFighter is a modular, flexible system that links command, control, communications and computers devices, sensors, networking components and power modules into a centralized, wearable platform controlled by the individual soldier. FalconFighter is designed to accommodate products with open standards and interfaces—making it easier for the system to adapt to changing mission requirements and integrate emerging technologies. For more information, visit www.rfcomm.harris.com.

European Sea Border Surveillance

The European research and development project SeaBILLA addresses sea border surveillance. The project complies with a European Union requirement for a shared common environment of relevant information for the surveillance and control of the European maritime borders. SeaBILLA aims to demonstrate the ability to enhance maritime border control through the net-centric integration of different kinds of surveillance systems, including Earth observation satellites, naval and coastal systems, unmanned or manned air vehicles, radar systems and passive sensors. For more information, visit www.selex-si.com.

Vehicle Missile Shield