N202-135 - Model Based Systems Engineering for Tactical Data Link Systems

The Multi-Functional Information Distribution System (MIDS) Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) is a four-channel radio; primary provider of the mission critical Link 16 and Tactical Targeting Network Technology waveforms; and key component of warfighter Blue Force Tracking capabilities across the Department of Defense, including some NATO allies. A large customer base creates logistical, configuration management and cybersecurity challenges across the Service’s system variants. The integration and acquisition costs of the system hardware, and Research, Development, Testing and Evaluation (RDT&E) create challenges that hinder the Navy’s ability to thoroughly investigate available emerging technologies (e.g. tactical radios, antennas, waveforms) and enhance the system performance integrity. As a result, the MIDS Program Office (MPO) requires efficient, agile, and resilient Tactical Data Link system models to maintain configuration management, enable automated cybersecurity certification and accreditation processes, and reduce the RDT&E and acquisition costs/timelines. These are leveraged to expedite future capability enhancements to the fleet. Model Based System Engineering (MBSE) digital engineering provides unprecedented levels of systems analysis, insights, configuration management, and upgrades through enhanced model architecture artifacts, integrated true data, and customized software analytics that include expedited correlation of relevant technical data and simulation capabilities in support of technology trade-off studies. The Phase I primary technical objective is to leverage MBSE methodologies to define a comprehensive SysML-based digital twin MBSE system model of a single MIDS JTRS terminal baseline configuration. The effort will start at TRL level 2 and reach TRL level 3-4. To design and prototype the MIDS JTRS MBSE model, G2 Ops will collaborate with other MIDS JTRS Stakeholders, including the MPO, PMW 150, PMW 130, PMW 750/760, FRD 200, NAVAIR, NAVWAR 5.0 Architecture Working Group and the prime vendors (DLS/Viasat). G2 Ops will gather relevant system documentation (e.g. IRD, ICD, CBD) and visit Navy user technologists and network architects to identify the system architectures, hardware/software components, interfaces/cables, specifications and requirements. With the system information, the team will define the different model diagrams, digital threads and simulation scenarios to ensure alignment with NAVWAR 5.0 MBSE policies, schema and integrated dictionaries. Phase I Option I includes expanding the MIDS JTRS model design into a System of Systems architecture with multiple peering point-to-point Link 16 nodes (e.g. aircraft carrier [CVN] to aircraft [F/A-18E/F]), and will be used for future model simulations in Phase II. Phase II includes the construction of a TRL level 6 MIDS JTRS MBSE model prototype, which will demonstrate enhanced performance and visibility into the development lifecycle of the MIDS JTRS system.