[Avionics Today 07-14-2015] In cooperation with the Atlantic Test Range (ATR) at Patuxent River, Md., Rockwell Collins performed the first live, risk-reduction flight using production form, fit and function F/A-18 airborne and ground equipment from the Common Range Integrated Instrumentation System (CRIIS). The CRIIS program fulfills critical Department of Defense (DoD) requirements to provide Time, Space, Position Information (TSPI), additional platform test data, and employs a more robust, spectrally efficient data link including multiple independent levels of security (MILS).
The MILS encryption recently completed certification on the program, and is capable of simultaneously protecting four levels of secure data flowing between aircraft and ground components. Rockwell Collins is the prime contractor and systems integrator for the next-generation military test range system that will replace the Advanced Range Data System (ARDS) currently in use at major U.S. military test ranges. CRIIS equipment will support a variety of platforms, including advanced fifth-generation aircraft, and implements the DOD’s vision of common test and training infrastructure for improved operational realism.
“This flight demonstrates that the production equipment is real and can hook into existing military systems,” said Tommy Dodson, vice president and general manager of Surface Solutions for Rockwell Collins. “We are done with development and are on track to complete our testing this year and start production in 2016. The next generation of secure, common test and training instrumentation is ready.”