Saab - Military Command and Control Systems

Saab has vast experience and knowledge of command and control systems, with system solutions ranging from traditional C2 systems to complete C4I solutions.

The flexible ODIN command and control product portfolio ensures efficiency combined with a second-to-none compliancy to international standards at all levels.

ODIN C3IS COMMAND AND CONTROL SOLUTIONS

Saab's C3IS command and control solutions are based on the ODIN portfolio. ODIN complies with NATO Joint Command, Control and Communication Information Exchange Data Model (JC3IEDM) standards. This model has been developed by several NATO countries and is integrated into the Multilateral Interoperability Program (MIP).

COTS COMMAND AND CONTROL FUNCTIONALITY

Using COTS products and real-time information sharing, ODIN provides a Common Operational Picture (COP) integrated with functions covering most aspects of combat, combat support and combat service support. It supports all major C2 functionalities in all types of operation. It does not include a communications system of its own, and it can be carried over any IP-based network infrastructure.

Functionalities of the ODIN command and control system include:

• Decision-making and planning support
• Current operations
• Intelligence reports and assessments
• Fire support
• Air defence
• Engineers
• Aviation
• Air-space management
• Logistics
• Communications
• CIMIC
• Integration to other systems

REAL-TIME MILITARY-INFORMATION SHARING

Real-time information sharing is provided through the MIP replication method or the former ATCCIS Replication Mechanism (ARM). This provides for the replication of data and access to local copies while communications are disrupted. Upon re-connection to the network databases are automatically updated. The mechanism also ensures interoperability with other nations and systems based on the JC3IEDM.

The replication functionality includes replication and the translation of data to different recipients simultaneously and independently. Dynamic exchange contracts are established between users to establish the flow of information across the command structure, by defining the type of information to be delivered and the intervals at which this is to take place.

This enables the information exchange to be limited to the minimum required to meet the operational needs, particularly important to lower command levels, and reduces the risk of information overload. The flow can take place through the normal, hierarchical military-command structure and non-hierarchical boundaries between adjacent units.

Both hardware and standard software are COTS-based. The level of possible ruggedisation is determined by customer needs. The system is based on Microsoft® Windows® 2003, with the database running on Microsoft® SQL Server 2003 or Oracle 9i. Office functions are based on Microsoft® Office XP.

GIS FUNCTIONALITY

GIS functionality is provided by the ESRI ArcGIS V9, spatial analyst and image analyser products integrated into the system. GIS functionality is used to show and edit the various overlays and also used for analysis and support for decision-making.

It is essential to have a common and accurate picture of any situation using real-time geographical presentation with maps, topology and GPS presentations of vehicles and individuals. The ODIN user interfaces have been designed in close collaboration with the users to provide exactly this. Thus, the solutions are easy to understand and use, intuitive to any Windows® end-user, and do not require extensive training.

MODULAR COMMAND AND CONTROL ARCHITECTURE

C2IS developments originated in the 1990s, and in 2004 Saab redesigned the architecture to make it more modular and flexible, as well as exploring the potential for joint capability and for a greater Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) to include Non-Government Organisations (NGOs).

In 2005 this new architecture was released with the name ODIN, consisting of four components: ODIN branch applications, ODIN C3 toolkit, ODIN data engine and ODIN joint replicator.

The flexible, modular architecture allows an easy implementation of any desired non-standard features without changing the entire application or solution. The components are available as single modules or as a complete system.

FIELD-PROVEN SOLUTION

The first version was delivered to the Danish Army in 2002 under the name Danish Army Command and Control Information System (DACCIS). Further enhanced versions have since been developed, and in 2003 the latest model of DACCIS was deployed to the Danish Division, subordinate brigades and some divisional troops.