ACADEMIA

Mercury Computer Systems announced that it was selected by Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems (SAS) to provide an Application-Ready Subsystem (ARS) and integration services for Raytheon's Advanced Distributed Aperture System (ADAS). Mercury will deliver an advanced sensor processing subsystem as part of Raytheon's Multi-function Image Processor (MIP), and systems integration services to help Raytheon realize unprecedented operational capabilities, allowing aircrews to achieve objectives with the lowest possible risk.

"Mercury's ability to solve challenging technical problems and deliver highly ruggedized, standards-based solutions were key factors in Raytheon's decision to work with us on their ADAS solution," said Brian Perry, vice president of Services and Systems Integration at Mercury Computer Systems. "Our ability to leverage our hardware, software, and services expertise to meet aggressive schedules is a vital asset that will enable Raytheon to complete a robust, deployable ADAS solution. Our Services and Systems Integration (SSI) team continues to work closely with the Raytheon technical team to optimize what we deliver for this key technology."

Named one of the top 10 technologies for 2010 by Aviation Week magazine, Raytheon's ADAS provides full spherical situational awareness to helicopter crews. Multiple high-resolution infrared sensors mounted around the helicopter let pilots "look through" the airframe for 360-degree situational awareness. Imagery sent to helmet mounted displays provides crew members with information customized to their specific roles. The wraparound effect is completed by a 3D audio system that issues threat alerts and crew communications from the direction of their source. Raytheon is enhancing the Advanced Distributed Aperture System in cooperation with the U.S. Army's Research Development and Engineering Command; Communications-Electronics Research, Development and Engineering Center; and Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate.

Mercury is providing a unique, high-performance sensor processing subsystem that leverages best-in-class heterogeneous processing elements including FPGAs, GPGPUs, and GPPs, interconnected with various high-speed switch fabrics. Highly ruggedized for harsh and mobile helicopter environments, the system will help improve mission effectiveness and flight safety at low altitude, in poor visibility and in hostile environments. Aligning with procurement reform and industry best practices, the standards-based OpenVPX system is designed to allow for rapid future technology insertions either in terms of processing capabilities or handling new sensors or new modalities. The technology integration will be completed by Mercury's Services and Systems Integration team.