Using iGov’s Evolutionary Technology Integration and Tactical Collaboration Suite for Tactical Local Area Networks

The key to mission success is Situational Awareness. At various levels, it can provide measurable advantages over opponents or challenges throughout a deployment or specific mission. However, situational awareness is only effective if it is collaborative and has reliable communications (voice, data, visuals). Hence, Tactical Local Area Networks (TACLAN) is the main enabler for net-centric warfare, interconnecting deployed elements of the US Department of Defense (DoD) tactical forces through a dependable, fast and robust mobile IT infrastructure and applications. These elements include soldiers, teams, and Joint Task Forces at the HQ level and can also comprise the tactical equivalent of a garrison network (NIPR, SIPR and JWICS).

In order to make this possible, iGov employed its own unique and proven process for developing tactical IT network solutions. The cornerstone of this approach is Evolutionary Technology Insertion (ETI). Through iGov’s systems engineering ETI, it allows them to develop what their clients require in tactical IT: Smaller, Lighter, Faster solutions.

There are several challenges that can arise individually or together at any point during a mission or deployment and in any combination. These include: IT support for tactical war fighters, evolving mission and changing requirements, worldwide support in complex operational environments, multiple hardware (HW) configurations, complex software (SW) baseline, requirement for lighter, smaller, newer technologies (incl. HW & SW), and operational stability.

Surpassing Challenges

Because armed force equipment and requirements varies – especially between coalition partners and during joint service operations – it means that reliability, interoperability, functionality and flexibility remain at the heart of these challenges. There are any number of possible solutions available, but many cannot address the full spectrum of successful mission barriers. However, an evolutionary approach from iGov that is proven in the battlefield already – and not just a “PowerPoint” concept – offers the most comprehensive tactical collaboration solution for net-centric warfare through its TACLAN program.

When examining further the challenges of today’s special operations forces, the mission of a network integration provider becomes even clearer: forces require a dynamic life-cycle engineering, production, sustainment, and program management support that will enables operational forces (from any Marine Corps to Special Forces) to conduct network centric operations across the warfare spectrum in all operational environments. This is the mission critical juncture where ETI comes into play as a success deciding factor.

ETI ensures the development, establishment and maintenance of stable operational platforms. iGov developed their ETI process that mandates tactical community participation; uses proven processes that enhance flexibility; and optimizes the use of technology to improve war-fighting capability. iGov performs early and persistent systems engineering, leading to reduced costs and providing the basis for accurate life monitors both HW and SW baselines to ensure solutions use the most advantageous technology without adversely impacting tactical effectiveness in the field or via sustainment efforts. iGov has extensive experience in managing parts obsolescence and maintaining preferred relationships with a number of the leading IT vendors. This means that iGOV can fulfil MilSpec while taking advantage of highly available and cost effective COTS solutions. This facilitates advance insight into technology roadmaps and enabling proactive planning for tactical operations – such as the ever important situational awareness.
In this way, the iGov approach enables and provides the following advantages in a single solution, demonstrating