Rockwell Collins technology to enable next-generation JTAC capabilities for DARPA close air support program

Rockwell Collins has been selected by Raytheon to integrate a suite of advanced technologies for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's (DARPA) Persistent Close Air Support (PCAS) program.

As a teammate to Raytheon for the design and development phase of the program, Rockwell Collins seeks to streamline CAS workflows and Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) human-machine interfaces, provide high bandwidth QNT radios, and integrate dismounted, next-generation head up displays, helmet mounted cueing systems, and advanced targeting and visualization tools.

DARPA's PCAS program aims to enable ground forces and combat aircrews to jointly select and employ precision-guided weapons from a diverse set of airborne platforms. The program seeks to leverage advances in computing and communications technologies to fundamentally increase CAS effectiveness, as well as improve the speed and survivability of ground forces engaged with enemy forces.

"Through this JTAC-centric program, our intent is to reduce close air support timelines while advancing technology, software and communications that directly support joint terminal attack controllers and how they interoperate with manned and unmanned aircraft to perform missions," said Tommy Dodson, vice president and general manager of Surface Solutions for Rockwell Collins.