US Navy Deploys Common Network Interface System on USS Boxer

Released on Monday, March 16, 2009

FAIRFAX, Va. � The U.S. Navy has successfully deployed the General Dynamics-developed Common Network Interface (CNI) system on the USS Boxer (LHD 4). The system improves situational awareness for Expeditionary Strike Group Commanders by fusing stove-piped battle management systems into a single integrated tactical picture. Based on an open architecture framework, CNI enables continuous warfighter-driven improvements and facilitates more effective interoperability with other ships in the fleet. General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems is a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD).

The Common Network Interface system uses the rapid capability insertion process, providing more capability at a faster rate than a traditional development process through frequent software upgrade cycles. The submarine community successfully uses this process for its technology refresh cycles. Developed in a series of "flights," each deployment of CNI will insert additional tactical capability and improve the user interface without incurring high costs associated with dismantling and reinstalling entire systems. In the future, this system will also provide a single integrated display of correlated radar and link picture.

"General Dynamics is committed to using our open architecture design to bring advanced capabilities to our sailors in the fleet," said Mike Tweed-Kent, vice president and general manager of integrated combat systems for General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems. "The CNI system has proven successful at sea and will now help provide improved situational awareness to commanders of ships that are taking on multiple missions."

The Common Network Interface systems engineering effort is part of the Small Business Innovative Research program.