New PacStar TFS system, based on Intel processors and NVIDIA GPUs, combines high-performance processing and secure network connectivity to support tactical and expeditionary sensor fusion applications
ASHBURN, Va. – October 7, 2021 – Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions division today announced that its PacStar® business, a leading developer and supplier of advanced communications solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), has introduced a deployable solution for sensor fusion and edge data processing in disconnected, limited, intermittent (DIL) environments. The rugged COTS-based PacStar Tactical Fusion System (TFS) is a modular, tactical and expeditionary processing and data distribution node for sensor-enabled platforms and dismounted warfighters.
Using next-generation models of field-proven PacStar 400-Series modules and sleds, PacStar TFS is ideal for deploying high-performance processing and sensor aggregation in a package rugged enough to fit tactical vehicles while small enough to meet airline carry-on size requirements (Packaging options including Mini-Transit Case Systems, 4U, Rugged 4U+, and U.S. Army SAVE mounting options). Based on Intel® processors and NVIDIA® GPUs, this size, weight, and power (SWaP) optimized system is ideal for hosting advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning-driven software, making it compatible with a wide variety of sensor fusion applications and able to support a vast array of C5ISR use cases. PacStar TFS is designed for applications such as processing and analyzing video for target identification, tracking, and handoff; integrating multiple sensor input from multiple endpoints, including from wireless sources; supporting situational awareness, C2 and mission command applications; and distributing data, including geographic information and point-of-interest information to tactical squads.
“Sensor fusion is a true force multiplier at the tactical edge of the battlefield," said Chris Wiltsey, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions division. “PacStar TFS delivers a rugged small form factor MOSA solution for deploying the compute power and networking connectivity needed to fully leverage sensor data across the battlefield, from airborne platforms, ground vehicles, and mounted and dismounted soldiers. Now, high-performance processing and sensor aggregation are available in a package rugged and small enough to be deployed in tactical vehicles.”
“With the introduction of our new PacStar TFS system, we once again showcase the advantages of our PacStar 400-Series modular architecture, extending our solution family to support the most compute and networking intensive sensor fusion applications,” said Peggy Miller, Senior General Manager, PacStar Business Unit, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions division. “Our commitment to open architectures delivers interoperability with the most popular tactical software and infrastructure products, as well as the most promising emerging technologies, to ensure future-proofing and upgradeability.”
About the PacStar TFS
The rugged PacStar TFS system is available with an unmatched array of vehicle-mount and warfighter carry options with MIL-STD certifications. The highly flexible modular open system approach (MOSA) based system includes a family of more than 30 interoperable module types, including compute with GPU, storage, switching, routing, radios, crypto, and more. PacStar TFS can be easily and quickly configured to meet unique program needs, for example, maximizing the number of CPU and GPU, solid-state storage, and radio types, depending on program needs. In addition to providing a vendor-agnostic platform for supporting industry-standard devices and COTS and GOTS software, the PacStar TFS can support any IP-enabled EUDs including cameras, AR/VR headsets, and legacy video and radio sources.
Available with a wide range of packaging options, including transit case, rack mount, vehicle mount, and U.S. Army SAVE mounting, PacStar TFS includes built-in DoD Standard Batteries that provide automated backup power for continuous availability. PacStar TFS is managed by PacStar IQ-Core® Software, providing streamlined nodal and remote management capabilities for the tactical communicator.
Curtiss-Wright’s PacStar products are manufactured in its facility in Portland, Oregon.
About PacStar’s Family of Leading Battlefield Solutions
PacStar’s industry-leading family of advanced communications solutions addresses a wide range of military, intelligence, and commercial applications. PacStar creates and manufactures COTS-based rugged, small form factor expeditionary and mobile communications systems. Separately, it developed integrated, network communications management software, IQ-Core Software, for the military, federal, state/local government, and emergency responder markets. The company’s patented IQ-Core Software, hardware technology, and integrated solutions provide secure, command, control, and communications systems, particularly in remote or infrastructure starved areas. In addition, PacStar’s communications systems are ideally suited for commercial/industrial organizations with mission-critical field communications requirements.
About Curtiss-Wright Corporation
Curtiss-Wright Corporation (NYSE: CW) is a global innovative company that delivers highly engineered, critical function products and services to the Aerospace and Defense markets, and to the Commercial markets including Power, Process, and General Industrial. Building on the heritage of Glenn Curtiss and the Wright brothers, Curtiss-Wright has a long tradition of providing reliable solutions through trusted customer relationships. The company employs approximately 8,200 people worldwide. For more information, visit www.curtisswright.com.