Rockwell to provide ad-hoc networking for Canadian Navy

The Canadian Department of National Defence has selected Rockwell Collins to provide Sub-Net Relay Controllers (SNC-2050), High Speed Modems (HSM-2050) and Very High Speed Modems (VHSM-3000) for the Sub-Net Relay (SNR) program. The contract is valued at $7 million. The SNR technology makes it possible to establish ad-hoc, Internet-Protocol (IP) networks used for tactical data exchanges, enhanced situational awareness and collaborative planning by the Canadian Navy and coalition navies. Features of the SNR program include built-in text chat, comprehensive signal display and a remote control graphic user interface. "The Canadian Navy joins a growing list of international military users of Rockwell Collins' modems for SNR that now includes the U.S. Navy and Royal Australian Navy," said Bruce King, vice president and general manager of Surface Solutions for Rockwell Collins. "Our modems will help provide modernized, secure networked communication systems for the military that mirror the type of IP-based technology we've become accustomed to in our daily lives". SNR was developed to permit the deployment of ad-hoc, self-configuring tactical IP networks with inherent relay capabilities for communication between users. Line-of-sight radio assets, primarily in the VHF and UHF bands, are used to give tactical commanders a data networking system under their local control. The contract calls for the initial delivery of 83 SNR systems, along with training and support. Future contract provisions include the completion of technical studies along with a potential order of up to additional 53 SNR nodes. Work will be performed at the Rockwell Collins facility in Ottawa, Canada.