Patriot system turning to gaming interface
On 17 June, Raytheon announced that it is integrating a Warfighter-Machine Interface (WMI) into an upcoming Patriot upgrade called PDB 8.1.
WMI is intended to allow complex data to be viewed in a simpler, easier to understand way. It replaces pixelated shapes and a complex directory system with 3D visuals, status pages and search functions. Testing carried out by Raytheon showed that the WMI improves soldier reaction time, and reduces the time taken to train soldiers to operate the Patriot system.
‘Raytheon is constantly enhancing, upgrading and modernising Patriot to ensure it can outpace evolving threats,’ said Tom Laliberty, Raytheon Integrated Defense System's vice president of integrated air and missile defense. ‘Incorporating WMI into PDB 8.1 leverages the latest technological advances to provide the 16 members of the Patriot partnership a user interface with a total view of their respective battlespace.’
The US Army took the decision in 2018 to utilise WMI across all of its Patriot platforms at both the battalion- and battery-level command and control, including 60 fire units and 15 battalion headquarters. Initial operational capability for PDB 8.1 with WMI is expected to be reached in 2022.
When other Patriot nations upgrade their platforms, WMI will be automatically included.
More from Digital Battlespace
-
![New US developer LightRidge to take on air and space sensor markets]()
New US developer LightRidge to take on air and space sensor markets
The private-equity backed firm combines the businesses of space payloads specialist GEOST and airborne sensor manufacturer Ophir.
-
![Northrop Grumman details bid for US Navy TACAMO aircraft replacement]()
Northrop Grumman details bid for US Navy TACAMO aircraft replacement
The company believes its role as prime contractor on the E-2 Hawkeye puts it in a strong position for the programme to replace the USN's Boeing E-6 Mercury fleet.
-
![Northrop Grumman hones US Space Force satellite design in virtual environment]()
Northrop Grumman hones US Space Force satellite design in virtual environment
The company has applied its Highly Immersive Virtual Environment technology to the design process of polar overwatch satellites ordered by the US Space Force.
-
![Northrop Grumman joins USAF effort to build digital network backbone]()
Northrop Grumman joins USAF effort to build digital network backbone
The company will join Phase 1 of the Common Tactical Edge Network effort to enable Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2).
-
![Raytheon satellite network will help track hypersonic threats]()
Raytheon satellite network will help track hypersonic threats
Raytheon Technologies has received an award worth over $250 million to design, develop and deliver a seven-vehicle networked missile tracking satellite constellation from the US Space Development …
