New upgraded version of SPEED software released

A new version of the Systems Planning, Engineering and Evaluation Device (SPEED) software developed by Northrop Grumman for the US Marine Corps has been released that enhances electromagnetic spectrum situational awareness and operations.

The US Marine Corps released the update, Version 11.1.1, in July. The new version adds 3D mapping and mission planning capabilities, including frequency-dependent rejection interference analysis, enhanced jammer modelling and effectiveness prediction. The enhancements will enable communications planners to plan, model and analyse radio and jammer effects in a defined electromagnetic spectrum environment to better understand where communications degradation or interoperability issues may occur. 

Although developed for the US Marine Corps, SPEED is also used by other US services, in joint operations, and has been supplied to a number of nations through the US foreign military sales programme. The system has been in continuous operation since it was first delivered in 1988.

Mike Twyman, sector vice president and general manager of the Defense Systems division for Northrop Grumman Information Systems, said: ‘Northrop Grumman is proud of its development and advancement of this critical planning capability, particularly as the electromagnetic battlefield grows increasingly complex and the use of the electromagnetic spectrum becomes increasingly essential to warfighters.

‘This recent software release is especially important because it represents significant advancements in both front-end user experience and back-end modelling and simulation. This software provides critical integrated functionality that can support both marine corps and army spectrum management and electronic warfare requirements.’