IAI Unveils AI-Enabled OPAL-NG Battle Management System

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has unveiled OPAL Next Generation (OPAL-NG), a new battle management system designed for sixth-generation platforms and multi-domain warfare. The system will be presented publicly for the first time at the ILA Berlin Air Show.

Building on the operational experience of the existing OPAL architecture, the new system integrates edge-based artificial intelligence, advanced manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) capabilities and real-time information sharing across air, land and maritime forces.

According to IAI, OPAL-NG creates a shared operational picture between manned and unmanned platforms, enabling the exchange of data, voice, imagery and video in real time. The system is designed to shorten sensor-to-shooter timelines by rapidly processing information from multiple sources and converting it into actionable intelligence.

A key feature is support for collaborative operations between crewed aircraft and unmanned systems, allowing platforms to share sensing, electronic warfare, interception and strike missions during combat operations.

"Future combat will be defined by interoperability, speed and the ability to operate as a cohesive, multi-domain force," said IAI President and CEO Boaz Levy. "By introducing AI-enabled processing and enhanced collaboration between manned and unmanned systems, we are enabling faster, more informed decision-making in increasingly complex operational environments."

The system is based on IAI's operationally proven OPAL architecture, which is already deployed on fighter aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, naval vessels and command centers. OPAL-NG supports NATO interoperability standards, including Link-16, and features an open architecture that allows users to integrate existing systems and develop mission applications tailored to operational requirements.