Boeing has combined its Australian and US expertise to build ground architecture and control systems for Australia’s first defence satellites under the JP9102 program.
The systems will be built on technology from Boeing’s US Wideband Global Satellite and UHF space programs, as well as on Australian-made Currawong Battlespace Communications System’s Mission System Manager.
Boeing’s advanced mission planning system is designed to control end-to-end satellite operations from a centralised operations centre.
Scott Carpendale, Boeing Defence Australia’s vice president and managing director, said the advanced ground architecture is the result of six years of development collaboration between Australia and the United States.
“It builds on proven software solutions to ensure the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has the capability to manage operations within Australian borders, giving total control over JP9102 and future space missions.”
Automation has enabled Boeing to accelerate workflows and reduce the overall workload for satellite operators as they control payloads and monitor for threats.
“We are ready and equipped to deliver ground systems that can maintain the connectivity, efficiency and resilience of the ADF’s satellite communications system. This includes upskilling our local workforce to support an accelerated schedule and to transition existing JP2008 systems and infrastructure,” said Carpendale.
“And, as the core software architecture is being developed on open standards, the ADF and local industry will have the ability to adapt and modify it locally, ensuring sovereignty and the flexibility to support future Commonwealth constellations.”
