GDUK details Tactical Processing System work for MLSP
General Dynamics UK has begun modification work on its Tactical Processing System for integration into the Royal Navy’s AW101 Merlin Mk4 helicopter. The work is being conducted as part of the Merlin Life Sustainment Programme (MLSP).
The MLSP, awarded to AgustaWestland in January 2014, will see 25 AW101 Merlin helicopters converted for maritime operations. General Dynamics UK’s work will improve the Tactical Processing System’s performance to address the broader requirements of the Merlin Mk4 platform. The company’s Secure Data Recorder to provide increased secure data storage capability will also be introduced.
The Tactical Processing System is an evolution of the General Dynamics UK Tactical Processing System currently installed on the AgustaWestland AW159 platform, which integrates a diverse range of sensor and application information for display in the cockpit, encrypted data storage and tactical datalink capability.
The Secure Data Recorder provides an accredited security solution that allows a user operating in unfriendly environments to safely record and store data for further use. Qualified for manned and unmanned platforms operating in the air, on land and in maritime environments, the Secure Data Recorder enables the transfer of data on and off all types of platforms using an easily inserted encrypted memory cartridge. Typical data transfers include the uploading of mission and digital map data, along with the extraction of recorded data such as radar and electro-optical sensors, voice and data communications and tactical mission data.
Steve Rowbotham, chief operating officer, General Dynamics UK, said: ‘The evolution of the Tactical Processing System for the AW101 Merlin Mk4 continues the successful long-term collaborative relationship between General Dynamics UK and AgustaWestland. It is recognition of the highly-capable electronic solutions General Dynamics UK currently provides on a variety of different platforms.’
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Defence Helicopter
-
![Germany to send WS-61 Westland Sea King helicopters to Ukraine]()
Germany to send WS-61 Westland Sea King helicopters to Ukraine
Germany has committed to sending Ukraine six of its 21 retiring WS-61 Westland Sea King multirole, amphibious helicopters.
-
![Boeing secures $271 million to advance modernisation of US Special Operations' MH-47G Chinook]()
Boeing secures $271 million to advance modernisation of US Special Operations' MH-47G Chinook
Boeing has clinched a major contract modification to further its backing of the US Special Operations Command’s MH-47G Chinook aircraft modernisation effort.
-
![Dubai Airshow 2023: South Korean homegrown helicopters make international debut]()
Dubai Airshow 2023: South Korean homegrown helicopters make international debut
Two KAI helicopters, the KUH-1E utility helicopter and the Light Attack Helicopter (LAH), have taken centre stage at the Dubai Airshow 2023.
-
![Italian Navy receives final NH90 helicopter]()
Italian Navy receives final NH90 helicopter
The Italian Navy now boasts a fleet of 56 NH90 helicopters comprising 46 SH-90As and 10 MH-90As.
-
![Argentina seeks AW109 and CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters]()
Argentina seeks AW109 and CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters
The Argentinian Air Force (FAA) and the Argentinian Naval Aviation Command (COAN) are looking for options to upgrade their helicopter fleets.
-
![DSEI 2023: Lockheed to produce about 40% of Black Hawks on UK soil if it wins NMH contest]()
DSEI 2023: Lockheed to produce about 40% of Black Hawks on UK soil if it wins NMH contest
Lockheed Martin promises a boost to the British job market and export opportunities, while strengthening ties with Poland and positioning the UK for a future in rotorcraft technology in the event of a New Medium Helicopter competition triumph.
