Article Posted on : - May 07, 2011

A file photo.

SYDNEY (BNS): The Australian Government has given approval to progress two major Australian Defence Force (ADF) capability projects.

The total estimated budget of the two projects will be $1 billion by the time they are complete.

According to Australian MoD, the Joint Project 2072 Phase 2B – Battlespace Communications System (Land) first pass has been approved by the Government, which will provide next generation telecommunications network capability to ADF.

This capability will provide a modern, deployable communications system that enables the transmission of information over a range of wired and wireless networking services, such as radios, satellite and computer servers and terminals.

Joint Project 2072 Phase 2B is cost capped between $100 million and $500 million. The Government is expected to make a final decision on approval for the project in the period 2012-13 to 2014-15.

This Project will enable Army and elements of the Air Force to replace ageing mobile communications infrastructure services and provide commanders with an increased level of situational awareness, command and control and information sharing capability.

This equipment will greatly enhance Defence’s ability to use modern information technology to link sensors, weapon systems, commanders and personnel in a networked environment.

The government will also consider the next Joint Project 2080 Phase 2B.1 – Funded Project Definition Study for Defence Personnel Systems Modernisation.