IAI Launches OPAL to Improve Battlefield Connectivity
The new solution relies on a secure communication network that connects all platforms on the ground, in the air, and at sea, to allow real-time information sharing
IsraelDefense
| 16/04/2019
Illustration: IAI
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has launched OPAL, an innovative solution that connects all platforms on the battlefield, manned and unmanned alike. OPAL is based on the creation of a decentralized communication cloud for all platforms on the ground, in the air, and at sea, to allow real-time information sharing. This allows all members to exchange relevant information in order to achieve a comprehensive operational picture of the battlefield.
OPAL relies on a secure and proven communication network that connects different networks and platforms without fixed base stations. The new solution is compatible with any platform, including advanced fighter aircraft, tanks, ships or ground troops, the company said in a release.
According to IAI, the OPAL solution provides a range of proven capabilities and operational flexibility, which allows for optimal utilization of the available resources to maximize effectiveness for a wide range of missions. OPAL is installed in a variety of advanced fighters, attack helicopters, refueling aircraft, UAVs, ships, Command and Control centers, as well as mobile and fixed base stations.
OPAL is said to provide optimized effectiveness in accomplishing mission goals by generating and sharing a Common Operating Picture in real time; providing interoperability of fifth-generation fighter aircraft with legacy platforms, maximized utilization of resources and the ability to execute multiple missions within a given timeframe.
The solution is also meant to improve survivability by sharing threat data with air and ground forces, to avoid entry into danger zones. Enhanced flight safety with the collision avoidance warning indications which alerts pilots of near-collision conditions and provides visual avoidance maneuvers.
OPAL also enables users to develop new operational capabilities and deploy them rapidly without having to change hardware or aircraft avionics software blocks, the company adds. This capability significantly reduces the time to introduce new capabilities on the platforms from years to months.
Yossi Melamed, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Aviation Group, commented, “OPAL is a unique and advanced IAI development that has been operational for many years, and is a major factor in operational successes. OPAL provides comprehensive interoperability of communications and operational capabilities between air and ground forces and serves as a force multiplier. I believe it will be a major asset for air, sea and ground users and enhance their performance in the future battlefield.”
The new solution relies on a secure communication network that connects all platforms on the ground, in the air, and at sea, to allow real-time information sharing
Illustration: IAI
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has launched OPAL, an innovative solution that connects all platforms on the battlefield, manned and unmanned alike. OPAL is based on the creation of a decentralized communication cloud for all platforms on the ground, in the air, and at sea, to allow real-time information sharing. This allows all members to exchange relevant information in order to achieve a comprehensive operational picture of the battlefield.
OPAL relies on a secure and proven communication network that connects different networks and platforms without fixed base stations. The new solution is compatible with any platform, including advanced fighter aircraft, tanks, ships or ground troops, the company said in a release.
According to IAI, the OPAL solution provides a range of proven capabilities and operational flexibility, which allows for optimal utilization of the available resources to maximize effectiveness for a wide range of missions. OPAL is installed in a variety of advanced fighters, attack helicopters, refueling aircraft, UAVs, ships, Command and Control centers, as well as mobile and fixed base stations.
OPAL is said to provide optimized effectiveness in accomplishing mission goals by generating and sharing a Common Operating Picture in real time; providing interoperability of fifth-generation fighter aircraft with legacy platforms, maximized utilization of resources and the ability to execute multiple missions within a given timeframe.
The solution is also meant to improve survivability by sharing threat data with air and ground forces, to avoid entry into danger zones. Enhanced flight safety with the collision avoidance warning indications which alerts pilots of near-collision conditions and provides visual avoidance maneuvers.
OPAL also enables users to develop new operational capabilities and deploy them rapidly without having to change hardware or aircraft avionics software blocks, the company adds. This capability significantly reduces the time to introduce new capabilities on the platforms from years to months.
Yossi Melamed, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Aviation Group, commented, “OPAL is a unique and advanced IAI development that has been operational for many years, and is a major factor in operational successes. OPAL provides comprehensive interoperability of communications and operational capabilities between air and ground forces and serves as a force multiplier. I believe it will be a major asset for air, sea and ground users and enhance their performance in the future battlefield.”
