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PIF provides on-the-move command and control system for 2 UH-60L Blackhawk aircraft.
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PIF provides on-the-move command and control system for 2 UH-60L Blackhawk aircraft.
Deploying units receive the latest command and control capability...
Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, 14 July 2006 - The AMRDEC Engineering Directorate Prototype Integration Facility recently outfitted the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB) with the latest Army Airborne Command and Control System (A2C2S) capability. The PIF delivered two A2C2S aircraft ahead of schedule in support of planned deployment of the 36th CAB. The PIF has now integrated six UH-60L Blackhawk Helicopters with the most up-to-date, evolving A2C2S capabilities.
A2C2S is an on-the-move command and control system that transforms selected UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopters into airborne command posts. The system includes five interchangeable workstations, large-screen displays, and an advanced voice/data communications suite. The latest configuration aircraft have design upgrades that enhance performance including Voice Over Internet Protocol, International Maritime Satellite communications, and supportability improvements. Specifically, A2C2S provides aircraft with data and voice communication capability with ground and air support, situational awareness, common view of the battlefield, over the battlefield mobility, and connectivity to other information/communication networks.
The government contributors included the A2C2S Product Office and the Utility Helicopter Program Management Office, AMCOM Acquisition Center and Legal, local elements of the Army Test and Evaluation Command and AMRDEC’s Aviation Applied Technology Directorate, Aviation Engineering Directorate, and Engineering Directorate. Contractor contributors included JVYS, the PIF Prime Contractor, along with ARINC, enrGies, and Integrated Power Technologies.
According to Mr. Al Abejon, the A2C2S Product Manager, the team’s "truly professional efforts” are responsible for once again providing a critical Battle Command capability to the warfighter.
Mr. Abejon went on to say, "The timely deliveries of the two A2C2S aircraft to the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade this week reflect the remarkable focus and teamwork of the dedicated personnel from the PIF/JVYS, RTTC/ATTC, AED, and A2C2S Product Office.”
In March, the PIF delivered two Army Airborne Command and Control System (A2C2S) Phase 2 aircraft to the 25th Infantry Division. Those aircraft flew from Redstone Arsenal Airfield to Hickham Air Force Base, Hawaii. Two more aircraft were delivered to the 1st Cavalry Division in April.
In August, the PIF will incorporate additional design changes to include a modular concept, allowing the unit commander to tailor the command and control elements to that of the unit’s needs.
AMRDEC Prototype Integration Facility is a Government Owned, Government Operated (GOGO) organization located at Redstone Arsenal. The PIF concentrates on meeting the urgent needs of AMCOM, the Department of Defense, and ultimately, the warfighter. By providing development, fabrication, systems integration and modification expertise, the PIF offers single-source convenience and turn-key solutions. The PIF Team is committed to excellence while rapidly supporting the warfighter.
End
Above: Five A2C2S workstations fill the UH-60 cabin.
Above: Completed aircraft leave Redstone Arsenal Airfield 11 July 2006.
