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Rockwell Collins recently received an $18 million contract from the United Kingdom (UK) Ministry of Defence (MoD) to provide a suite of products for the next generation Forward Air Controller and Forward Observation Officer (FAC/FOO) system. “Tactical air control: the job explained” offers an excellent overview of the role and its challenges; for more operational details, see the experiences of 3 PARA in Afghanistan, which included the exploits of Military Cross winner Flight Lieutenant Matthew Carter.
The new, fully digitized system is part of the Improved Targeting Geolocation Accuracy (ITGA) program, is comprised of a suite of new lightweight, fully integrated digital hardware and software. At the heart of the system is a tablet computer that hosts the Rockwell Collins Rosetta Joint Fires (RJF) software package. RJF provides targeting and communication capabilities and acting as an integration gateway for future systems; it also allows British FAC/FOOs to exchange 9-15 line FAC targeting messages with all U.S. aircraft, as well as an increasing number of compatible coalition forces. Other ITGA components include the Sagem Defense Securite JIM LR (Jumelles Integrees Multifonction – Long Range) targeting binoculars, and the Rockwell Collins Azimuth Augmentation system to correct laser range finder inaccuracies and offer military GPS-guided precision – a role it shares with the Rockwell Collins Defense Advanced GPS Receiver (DAGR).
The majority of work for this program will be done at the Rockwell Collins UK Ltd. Facility in Reading, England. Rockwell Collins release.