Elisra of Israel has revealed that a digital version of its successful AN/ACQ-9 Tactical Video and Data Link (TVDL) system is in advanced development to meet the requirements of the US military.
The current-generation analogue TVDL, which is already fielded and operational on a number of combat helicopters, is believed to have dramatically improved the hit rate of aircrews.
By receiving real-time video and telemetry data from UAV payloads and relaying the information to other aircraft and to forces on the ground, the TVDL enhances situational awareness and helps participants react to threats more quickly. Gunship pilots can relay visual intelligence to commanders on the ground and "receive the 'clear to shoot' almost instantly," says Elisra.
 |
|---|
© Elisra |
Avi Peleg, senior director marketing and sales at Elisra's Communications & Datalinks division, says "many branches of the US military have shown interest" in the digital version of the TVDL after "a relatively short experience of operating the TVDL system in the theater."
He anticipates that fresh trials of the system will take place in the USA "in the near future."
As a video relay, the system can simultaneously transmit the received video and data, and deliver imagery captured by onboard payloads to tactical forces in the battlespace, for enhanced coordination and battle management.
- All the latest news, video and images from AUVSI North America 2010
Source: Flight Daily News
