Next Generation Field Computing Device-Wearable

Kägwerks recognizes the Cost, Size, Weight, and Power (C-SWaP) challenges of SOCOM’s existing FCD-W solution as well as the complexity and limitations of the current capability to transition toward a “Secure/Smart Wireless Hub” (SWH). The transition is necessary to enhance the Special Operation Forces (SOF) Standard Operator and Joint Terminal Air Controller (JTAC) mission effectiveness across SOF to operate communication and collect data feeds and sensors to link the SOF elements. SOF must be able to collaborate and coordinate missions where advancements of small form factor edge compute, software defined networking (SDN), and integrated encryption to support classified communications over commercially available wireless networks is becoming a necessity as commercial communications and adversary capabilities continually evolve. SOCOM’s challenges are needed to support a wide array of Program of Record radios, peripheral, and battery/power solutions that exist across the SOF elements SOCOM supports. The Next Generation FCD-W solution must support existing systems while providing access to revolutionary communications and compute paradigms like 5G, COTS High-Capacity software defined radios (SDR), and Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ML) for capabilities like natural language processing and facial recognition. Under this SBIR Direct to Phase II effort Kägwerks and its partner Viasat will perform the necessary research, feasibility analysis, design, prototype development, testing, and demonstration to validate all areas of SOCOM’s Objectives listed below: Objective 1 – Design a Rugged Tactical USB Cabled Solution; Objective 2 – Develop a Tactical Hub and Investigate Smart Hub Feature Feasibility; Objective 3 – Implement Data and Power Management; Objective 4 – Develop a Connection to Program of Record (POR) Tactical Radios; Objective 5 – Develop a Connection to Peripheral Equipment; Objective 6 – Develop a Connection to POR and Tactical Batteries for System Power; The SOCOM Next Generation FCD-W solution is critical in enhance the effectiveness of the SOF Operator and JTAC to continue to provide enhanced command, control, and communication of the battlefield, continue to reduce fratricide through solutions like Digitally Aided Close Air Support (DACAS) over Program of Record radios, while expanding to support emerging global wireless communications (4G, 5G, WIFI) and enhanced applications for foreign partner engagements (language processing) and near real time recognition. The DOCK-SWH combines Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) compute technology with a tactical networking and security approach that enables robust communications over a wide variety of wireless devices including LTE, WIFI, Type 1 tactical radios, and non-Type 1 tactical radios.