Attachment_15_-_NESTSSlickSheet.pdf

Networked Electronic Support Threat Sensors (NESTS)

Providing Multi-Level Threat Electronic Support Portrayal

Challenge

As US systems become more Net centric, it is critical that they be tested in as realistic an Electronic Warfare environment as possible. Electronic Support Signal Intelligence and Direction Finding (SIGINT/DF) threats are a critical element for evaluating these Net centric systems.

Solution

The Networked Electronic Support Threat Sensors (NESTS) is a family of mobile threat representative systems for performing ES operations against network-centric battlefield systems. The NESTS consists of three types of systems; high capability (NESTS-H), medium capability (NESTS-M), and low capability (NESTS-L). The NESTS are capable of operation against a broad spectrum of signal types. Field tests have demonstrated NESTS can effectively prosecute a broad spectrum of signal types; from conventional low bandwidth voice communications to advanced Low Probability of Intercept (LPI) transmissions.

Result

The NESTS consist of multiple integrated equipment suites representing different levels of DF, Com-munications Intelligence (COMINT), and Signal Exploitation operations. The suites provide an advanced communications infrastructure for transmission of DF lines-of bearing, emitter geo-location, net construction, and signal analysis information to support threat command decisions, and to optimize the use of force elements including electronic warfare assets. NESTS systems of the same type can be operated stand-alone or cooperatively networked together. They can also be networked externally with the Integrated Threat Force. The system units have completed a DIACAP accreditation for use with associated networks.

Networked Electronic Support Threat Sensors (NESTS)

Providing Multi-Level Threat Electronic Support Portrayal

Capabilities

NESTS-H

• Coverage with dedicated digital DF and

COMINT receiver systems

• Robust digital radio network with redundant data options

• High capability against modern systems and waveforms including DSSS and FHSS signals

NESTS-M

• Coverage operation with dedicated digital receiver

• Digital data radio with redundant options

• Good capability against current tactical radios including FHSS

NESTS-L

• Transit case mounted with portable power source

• Netted operation via FM tactical radio with separate voice network

Applications

NESTS provides a realistic portrayal of threat Electronic Support capability. Each system type is based on un-modified internationally available COTS products for use against US and Allied military forces during the conduct of Developmental Test (DT), Operational Test (OT), and training events.

• Direction Finding - Variable DF Capability Across

System Suites

• Signal Exploitation - Comprehensive Analysis and

Intelligence Production

• Communication - Threat Specific and Enhanced Civil

Networks

Training

Decoy operational training is available:

• User Training (Deployment)

• Storage and transporting procedures

• Field repair procedures