The command-and-control system has been fitted to utility and ISTAR types.
Longstanding operator of Systematic’s SitaWare command-and-control (C2) suite, Defence Forces Ireland, has installed the software on its fleet of four Pilatus PC-12NG aircraft.
Operated by the Irish Air Corps, one aircraft is configured for the utility role and three ‘SPECTRE’ platforms provide an advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) capability to the Defence Forces.
SitaWare Headquarters and SitaWare Frontline both feature on the aircraft, with Headquarters used for overall mission management and Frontline to interface with ground and naval components, explains Captain Paul Shorte, CIS Officer at the Defence Forces Training Centre.
The software can draw on data from the multi-mission sensors that are fitted to the ‘SPECTRE’ platforms as well as information from external sources.
SitaWare enables data to be shared with all mission participants, ensuring seamless C2 and near real-time situational awareness across all domains and command levels.
“Onboard the PC-12s SitaWare is intended for a range of military and non-military roles,” says Capt Shorte, “For example, the software was recently used to help tackle wild fires, where it was linked to crews operating on the ground.”
“The software also enables us to seamlessly handover the management of an operation to a new aircraft when it comes on-station. When they arrive they already have all of the mission data and are fully appraised of the situation,” adds Capt Shorte.
SitaWare is also set to be integrated on the two Airbus C295 aircraft that are due to enter service with the Irish Air Corps in 2023, these platforms will primarily focus on maritime patrol duties.
“Defence Forces Ireland are an experienced operator of the entire SitaWare suite across all branches, and are quick to introduce innovative ways of working with the software,” notes Matthew Millward, Systematic’s Vice President of Business Development for UK, North Africa and Western Europe, “Their use of the software on board the PC-12 aircraft further demonstrates SitaWare’s multi-domain utility.”
SitaWare has been used in a number of operational roles with Defence Forces Ireland, as varied as fisheries protection, peacekeeping in the Middle East, and counter narcotics. Recently SitaWare was used by the Defence Forces as they assisted in the Irish government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The SitaWare suite is operationally proven and has been delivered to more than 30 countries. The software provides comprehensive C2 across all levels of the battlespace, from the dismounted commander with SitaWare Edge through to mounted elements with SitaWare Frontline, and higher levels of command with SitaWare Headquarters.
