C3 Software
The BattleHawk Command & Control (BHC2) software is configurable to deliver a solution matched to each user role. Its HCI has been developed over a number of years in co-operation with end users from the armored, infantry, special forces, and command domains.
The BattleHawk system is intuitive in nature, which is reflected in the very low training burden and low skill-fade experienced by operators. Great care has been taken to ensure efficient operation of the BHC2 software in the dismounted environment to ensure high performance with low power consumption allowing the BHC2 to be run on a number of MS Windows operating systems.
The BHC2 software comprises a core BattleHawk program and a number of specific applications, each of which addresses a particular need or interface, and each of which interacts with the core via a COM interface. This architecture allows for both interchangeable software components and a flexible development pathway.
BattleHawk mapping is based on an embedded GIS engine, designed to operate with real-time sensor inputs, providing an object orientated interface at the core of the BHC2 Architecture. It also provides a mapping studio that allows for the pre-processing of vector and raster maps and charts, as well as geo-referenced satellite and aerial photographic into a form that is suitable for high speed graphical display. The system will support 3D map analysis, utilizing DTED data.
The BHC2 software enables the operator to manipulate the display to achieve the required area of interest, appropriate level of detail, and illumination with minimum impact on the work load of the user.
The BHC2 supports the creation and editing of Overlays. Overlays normally consist of lines, areas, tactical symbols and annotation. Import and/or export of overlays can be done over wired or wireless networks.
The BHC2 software supports a number of navigation functions:
Waypoints, and routes with multiple waypoints, can be created, edited, saved, broadcast, or deleted.
BHC2 will display a bearing and distance to go to the next waypoint.
A primary function of the BHC2 is providing Situation Awareness data in near-real time. Key data elements include:
- Blue force tracking
- Track history
- Tactical symbology
- Alarms & warnings
- Reports, returns & messaging
- Tactical database
The BHC2 software supports Network Management with an integrated software module accessed at via the top level HCI. The Network Management System (NMS) is a complex element of the software closely related to the specific Combat Radio System (CRS) implementation.
The BHC2 is designed to operate with a wide range of external sensors for vehicle monitoring, operator monitoring (bio-sensors), target acquisition, navigation, meteorology, remote ground sensing, video, NBC etc.
A common interface used by most tactical nodes is the Laser Range Finder (LRF), which is used to acquire targets automatically into the BHC2 system then hand it off to other participants in the informed network in a just a few seconds.
The BHC2 software supports the capture, display and onward transmission of video data from sight sensors.
