Multi-Mission Open Architecture Tactical System (MOATS)

Overview

The heart of General Dynamics Canada's integration capability is our Multi-mission Open Architecture Tactical System (MOATS). Designed to integrate off-the-shelf sensors, the system provides a flexible vehicle for integration of a modern mission system. This flexibility allows General Dynamics Canada to select best in class sensors and subsystems to meet a wide range of operational needs. In addition, the scalable MOATS architecture is designed to accommodate different crew sizes from small, helicopter platforms, to large fixed wing patrol aircraft, with a user interface designed in conjunction with experienced operators.

In addition to independent operations, MOATS supports interoperability with other platforms, assets or control posts. Through the use of the embedded data link capability using international military standards, joint multinational operations are easily supported. Operators are presented a tactical picture involving shared information from other platforms fused with data from local sensors, enhancing their situational awareness over a wider range. To allow the operators to manage the large amounts of data available MOATS provides intuitive filtering, selection and search tools. These, together with automation of the network management functions required for data link operation, significantly reduce the workload of the operators.

General Dynamics Canada's experience in human factors design and the focus on the operational needs of the platform has lead to the development of lightweight consoles to support the installation of MOATS on a wide range of aircraft. These consoles, constructed from composite material, together with General Dynamics Canada's flat panel displays, provide significant weight reductions over traditional metal consoles.

Summary of Features

• A flexible system architecture that can be configured to meet the constraints of functionality, packaging, weight and balance, and redundancy;
• A mission-oriented operator interface utilizing fully programmable controls and displays;
• Development of operator interface and toolset involved human factors engineering studies with input from operational aircrew;
• A fully integrated tactical navigation and data processing component;
• External interfacing using MIL-STD-1553B avionics data bus, Ethernet, ARINC 429, and Fibre Channel;
• Expansion capability to incorporate legacy interfaces where required;
• Operating systems supported; Windows, Solaris, and Linux, and;
• Interoperable with other platforms through standard military and commercial data links.

Typical Maritime Patrol System Architecture

Full Airborne Weapon System Solution

General Dynamics Canada offers a range of integration solutions from the MOATS Mission Management System to a fully supported turnkey weapon system involving fixed-wing, helicopter or UAV platforms for long-range patrol to special missions. Integration support is accomplished through the provision of such items as software integration labs, training facilities, pre and post mission analysis tools and management of in service support. In this way, General Dynamics Canada has the experience and capabilities to provide complete turnkey solutions and support them for their in service life.