The Technology Application Contracting Office (TACO) of the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has awarded a five-year, $30.7 million contract to Rockwell Collins for the Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS). The contract includes expanded field service and system repair management for other installed avionics systems. The CAAS (see photo) provides cost-effective cockpit upgrades for tactical aircraft such as the Black Hawk so that existing aircraft are fully capable and mission-ready for modern warfare requirements.
The S-70 CAAS integrated avionics upgrade package includes five fully interchangeable 6 × 8 in. active-matrix liquid crystal displays (AMLCDs), capabilities to support three-dimensional (3D) graphics, multiple-channel display capabilities, high brightness for readability (even in full sunlight conditions), and compliance with MIL-STD-85762A for full NVIS compatibility.
The upgrade is performed by means of modular subsystems, such as the CDU-7000D control display unit, the PSM/VPM-8600 general-purpose processing unit, and the DTU-7100 data transfer unit (with access to worldwide navigation databases). System options include the DF-500 search-and rescue direction-finding (DF) system, the AN/ARN-153(V) digital TACAN navigation system, and the RTS-4100 Multiscan weather radar.
“This agreement extends our successful relationship of supporting the USSOCOM’s critical mission, as well as our position as a trusted source for technical expertise and logistics management,” said Thierry Tosi, vice president and general manager of Service Solutions for Rockwell Collins. “We’ll continue to provide critical support when and where it’s needed.”
Rockwell Collins has maintained critical defense systems in mission-ready condition since the USSOCOM began employing performance-based agreements for service and support about 10 years ago. The practice not only improves system reliability, but also reduces the number of spare systems required for tactical readiness.
