Northrop Grumman announced that its Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) has achieved Initial Operational Capability (IOC), a major milestone that marks the readiness of the system to be deployed in combat.
IBCS is a revolutionary command and control system that integrates data from multiple sensors and platforms to provide a comprehensive picture of the battlespace and enable joint multi-domain operations. IBCS enhances situational awareness, reduces fratricide, improves mission effectiveness and increases survivability for air and missile defence forces.
“IBCS is a game-changer for our warfighters, transforming how they perform air and missile defense missions,” said Kenn Todorov, vice president and general manager, combat systems and mission readiness, Northrop Grumman. “Achieving IOC means that IBCS has been tested and proven to provide unprecedented capabilities that are vital for defending our homeland and our allies.”
IBCS was developed in partnership with the U.S. Army as part of its Air and Missile Defense Modernization Strategy. IBCS replaces seven legacy command and control systems with a single, open-architecture system that enables integration of current and future sensors and weapon systems. IBCS also enables distributed operations and rapid response to changing threats.
IBCS has demonstrated its superior performance and interoperability in multiple exercises and tests, including the Army’s recent Limited User Test (LUT) where it successfully engaged 12 different threat types, including cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, rotary wing aircraft, fixed-wing aircraft and tactical ballistic missiles.
IBCS is now ready to be fielded to the first operational unit, the 3rd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment at Fort Bliss, Texas. Northrop Grumman will continue to support the Army’s training and operational needs as well as deliver ongoing software updates to enhance IBCS capabilities.
