A secure, internet-like tactical network is one step closer to providing joint warfighters with unprecedented access to voice, data and Video communications, as well as a level of interoperability never achieved before. The Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] team has announced the successful completion of Critical Design Review (CDR) for the Airborne, Maritime/ Fixed Station Joint Tactical Radio System (AMF JTRS). The Lockheed Martin team includes BAE Systems, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon.

“This is a significant milestone for the program as well as the goal of bringing, tactical Wireless communications into the 21st century,” said John Mengucci, president of Lockheed Martin’s Information Systems & Global Services-Defense. “By connecting the warfighter to the Global Information Grid, AMF JTRS provides non line-of-sight capabilities, wideband networking, clear communications, easy upgrades, seamless handoffs and the most critical benefit -- interoperability with all users across the network.”

AMF JTRS takes current radio capabilities to the next generation through advanced Internet Protocol (IP) technologies, similar, but much more mobile and secure than commercial communications devices on the market today. The CDR represented the capstone of more than six months of reviews focused on assessing the AMF JTRS subsystem and system design maturity. Additionally, the review concluded that the AMF JTRS design is on schedule to meet government specifications, according to the Joint Program Executive Office Joint Tactical Radio System (JPEO JTRS).

“The Lockheed Martin team demonstrated that the AMF JTRS program requirements are well defined and that the system and subsystem designs will satisfy the joint user requirements,” said U.S. Army Col. Ray Jones, Program Manager, AMF JTRS. “I congratulate the entire government and industry team.”

Once completely fielded, AMF JTRS will link more than 100 platforms, providing connectivity to areas where no communications infrastructure previously existed. Army, Air Force and Navy assets will be able to seamlessly synchronize with the soldier in the foxhole, providing near instantaneous awareness of the combat environment. Plus, since the capability is defined digitally in software and signal processing is handled by a programmable computer, AMF JTRS can interface with legacy radios, waveforms and systems. Interoperable communications are enabled without the need for multiple radios or hardware upgrades as new capabilities are fielded.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global Security company that employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.