Computer System Architecture Concepts for Future Combat Systems

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper sets forth computer systems architecture concepts for the combat system of the 2010–2030 timeframe that satisfy the needs of the next generation of surface combatants. It builds upon the current Aegis computer systems architecture, expanding that architecture while preserving, and adhering to, the Aegis fundamental principle of thorough systems engineering, dedicated to maintaining a well integrated, highly reliable, and easily operable combat system. The implementation of these proposed computer systems concepts in a coherent architecture would support the future battle force capable combat system and allow the expansion necessary to accommodate evolutionary changes in both the threat environment and the technology then available to effectively counter that threat. Changes to the current Aegis computer architecture must be carefully and effectively managed such that the fleet will retain its combat readiness capability at all times. This paper describes a possible transition approach for evolving the current Aegis computer architecture to a general architecture for the future. The proposed computer systems architecture concepts encompass the use of combinations of physically distributed, microprocessor‐based computers, collocated with the equipment they support or embedded within the equipment itself. They draw heavily on widely used and available industry standards, including instruction set architectures (ISAs), backplane busses, microprocessors, computer programming languages and development environments, and local area networks (LANs). In this proposal, LANs, based on fiber optics, will provide the interconnection to support system expandability, redundancy, and higher data throughput rates. A system of cross connected LANs will support a high level of combat system integration, spanning the major warfare areas, and will facilitate the coordination and development of a coherent multi‐warfare tactical picture supporting the future combatant command staff. Automatic fault detection and reconfigurability in the current Aegis architecture are expanded in the proposed computer systems architecture concept. The fault detection/reconfigurability scheme of the future architecture will play a key role supporting the continuous availability of the battle force capable combat system for countering the threat of the 21st century.