Al.com
June 20, 2013
MEADS demonstrates ability to successfully network with NATO systems
By Leada Gore
The Medium Extended Air Defense Systems, or MEADS, successfully demonstrated the ability to network with NATO systems during Joint Project Optic Windmill exercises held in May and June.
MEADS tactical battle command, control, communications, computers and intelligence software connected to a NATO test site in the Netherlands using a transportable air defense test bed at the German Air Force Air Defense Center at Fort Bliss, Texas.
MEADS demonstrated its ability to receive and process Link 16 messages, as well as other elements of threat engagements and target intercept.
“The MEADS battle management software combined with its netted-distributed architecture and plug-and-fight network are extraordinary advancements over the stovepipe systems in use today. In addition to implementing 360-degree coverage to protect our citizens, forces and assets, MEADS provides an integrated air picture taking advantage of organic and external sensor data,” MEADS International Executive Vice President Volker Weidemann said.
During a November 2012 test at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., MEADS demonstrated its 360-degree…capability by tracking, intercepting and destroying an air-breathing target.
MEADS International, a multinational joint venture headquartered in Orlando, Fla., is the prime contractor for the MEADS system. Major subcontractors and joint venture partners are MBDA in Italy and Germany, and Lockheed Martin in the United States. The MEADS program management agency NAMEADSMA is located in Huntsville.
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