As Defense Cuts Loom, Reimagining Maritime Security Could Help Reform Defense Spending
It is widely expected that cuts in defense and security budgets are coming as governments across the world grapple with the fiscal fallout from the COVID-19 crisis. To ensure that these cuts do not undermine global security, policymakers should approach their defense budgets with a scalpel, not a sledgehammer.In navigating the tough choices that lay ahead, government decision-makers should pursue spending reforms that enable states to operate both leaner and smarter, without sacrificing their vital security interests.The maritime security domain offers an exemplary case study.
Raytheon Debuts New Bridge System
Raytheon Anschütz has launched its next generation naval navigation and bridge system SYNAPSIS NAVAL. The new technology leverages Raytheon Anschütz’s SYNAPSIS Integrated Navigation System and integrates various military system capabilities including: radar video merging and other tactical radar features, integrated situational awareness, ship self-defense capabilities, military surveillance radars, and cyber security solutions. Andreas Weidner, director of Business Development for Raytheon Anschütz…
Lockheed Martin Partners With Japanese Industry
Lockheed Martin, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, SAMPA Kogyo K.K. and Mitsubishi Corporation have formed a joint venture company that will serve the emerging combat system engineering and lifetime support requirements of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces (JMSDF). The joint venture company, MLS Corporation, represents a full service partnership arrangement between industry and government, and leverages Japanese and U.S. industry expertise in life cycle support and integration services to benefit the JMSDF. MLS Corporation products will include engineering support and testing of complex electronics equipment, logistics services, training, commercial-off- the-shelf (COTS) configuration management and application program maintenance and upgrades.
Control System from EDI
Electronic Design, Inc. (EDI), designs and manufactures shipboard control and monitoring systems, training and simulation systems, and related products for large and small ships; both commercial and military. In 1997, EDI was chosen to participate in the U.S. Navy's Smart Ship project, and was awarded a contract to completely retrofit the hardwired Machinery Plant Control and Monitoring System (MPCMS) aboard an amphibious troop carrier (LSD 47), with a state-of-the-art, processor-based, software system using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology. Smart Ship was conceived in 1996 by the Navy to evaluate its future with respect to manpower and cost. It was clear COTS technology and reduced manning were essential elements.
